Latest News

Hawai'i Community Foundation leaders talk Stronger Hawaiʻi Fund, Maui Strong Fund, and more

Keanu Lau Hee, vice president of community resilience and strategic implementation, shares HCF’s approach to investing in communities across the state to meet the greatest needs. HCF CEO and President Terry George reflects on his first year at the helm of the organization and what he’s prioritizing now to make the most impact.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 18, 2026

Community Voices: Returning to Mākua

While visiting cemeteries is a common tradition in many cultures to honor loved ones, Aunty Muriel “Puni” Ioane cannot access the graves of her own ancestors whose ties to Mākua span generations.

Hannah Kaʻiulani CoburnAugust 18, 2026

Almond Tree is ‘meant to be shared’

The first-time Made in Hawaiʻi Festival vendor hopes to share its values of family, gratitude and aloha through its toffee, according to business founder Joanne Young. Almond Tree will also be debuting a new exclusive product — graham cracker matcha toffee — at this year’s festival.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 17, 2026

Environmental groups file lawsuit against Interior Secretary, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Seven environmental groups filed a lawsuit against Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service alleging that the new Critical Habitat Exclusion Rule prioritizes economic development over environmental protections. The Interior Department wrote that they stand by the regulation.

Haley LehmanAugust 17, 2026

Kawaihau Little League defeated in West Region championship game

Despite a valiant effort, the little leaguers from the Garden Isle fell to Southern California 11-3 on Friday afternoon.

Christian ShimabukuAugust 15, 2026

BLNR rejects East Maui water auction decision

Controversial proposal to auction East Maui water rights for 30 years rejected pending legal challenge.

Michael BrestovanskyAugust 15, 2026

Darryl Oliveira tapped as acting administrator of Hawai‘i County Civil Defense

He will lead the emergency management agency while the county hires a permanent replacement for Talmadge Magno, who retired from the role on Aug. 1.

Stephanie SalmonsAugust 15, 2026

Hawai‘i Sports Hall of Fame inducts 2026 class

A quartet of Island sporting legends were commemorated recently at Honolulu Country Club.

Christian ShimabukuAugust 15, 2026

Kani Ka Pila Grille announces finalists for talent search

Looking to catch some Hawaiian music at the Made in Hawaiʻi Festival? Stop by the Main Stage on Saturday, Aug. 22, to see the finalists for the 19th annual Kani Ka Pila Grille Talent Search. The winner of the contest gets a paid performance contract at Kani Ka Pila Grille, which is part of Outrigger Reef Waikīkī Beach Resort.

Katie HellandAugust 15, 2026

Maui oceanfront estate is on the market for $45M

The offering includes two adjacent oceanfront residences that span more than 7,500 square feet of living space on a little more than 1.2 acres.

Stephanie SalmonsAugust 15, 2026

Made in Hawaiʻi Festival to feature Mākia Market for the first time

Founder Taylor Yuen is a college senior and local entrepreneur who remembers helping at her dad’s booth at MIHF at a young age. This month, her business will participate in the festival, showcasing Hawaiʻi-based student makers — what she describes as a “full circle moment.”

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 15, 2026

Lala alters weekend sports schedule across Islands

A bevy of sporting events in the state have been either canceled or altered in anticipation of this weekend's inclement weather.

Christian ShimabukuAugust 15, 2026

City to host community outreach event in Makiki

Residents can provide feedback on traffic safety improvements at 6:30 p.m. this Tuesday, Aug. 18, at Makiki District Park to The City and Council of Honolulu Department of Transportation Services and Honolulu Complete Streets.

Haley LehmanAugust 15, 2026

Aloha Manapua is open in Waimalu Shopping Center

This is the business’s third and newest location; it’s celebrating its grand opening Aug. 15. Customers can enjoy its signature manapua, along with dim sum and plate lunches. The business is featuring a 10% discount for the rest of the month.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 15, 2026

Shawarma Break features a permanent buy one, get one free deal

The business, which started doing pop-ups in late 2024, is a first-time vendor at Made in Hawaiʻi Festival. Shawarma Break’s tagline is “The Home for Sharing,” according to business owner Giezel Alimboyoguen, who explains the meaning behind its BOGO menu items.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 14, 2026

Play pickleball in Downtown Honolulu to rally for a good cause

Stay out of the kitchen and paddle on at Northwestern Mutual Hawaiʻi’s charity pickleball tournament scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 26. All proceeds will benefit Kapiʻolani Medical Center for Women & Children’s new Martha B. Smith Cancer & Infusion Center, slated to open next year. Individual tickets start at $100 per person, and include round-robin play, lunch and more.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 14, 2026

Hawaiʻi’s next billion-dollar industry is not tourism — it is capital stewardship

Everyday people in Hawai‘i are, collectively, sitting on a vast source of wealth, mainly real estate. As Guild Consulting's real estate and finance expert Ray Tsuchiyama explains, the Islands' next big challenge — and opportunity — could be putting this wealth to work at the neighborhood level for positive change.

Ray TsuchiyamaAugust 14, 2026

‘Ewa Beach family offering $5,000 reward for tips about burglar

A burglar made off with more than $135,000 in jewelry from a house last weekend. The owners are offering a reward for tips that lead to an arrest.

Michael BrestovanskyAugust 14, 2026

Zippy's newest collaboration creates collection for humans and pets

The collab between the restaurant chain and local brand Coopmonsters includes hair claw clips and pet gear that commemorate Zippy's 60th and Coopmonster's 10th anniversaries.

Stephanie SalmonsAugust 14, 2026

Exit interview with Mid-Pacific Institute’s president

Mid-Pac’s outgoing president Paul Turnbull, who will have served in the role for 14 years come his departure next summer, reflects on his education career, the school’s new campus improvements, and what students and staff can expect this school year.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 14, 2026

“Kuleana” shares story of aloha ʻāina

Sara Kehaulani Goo, a journalist and news executive, writes about her family’s journey to protect ancestral lands and her experience living in the diaspora as part of her debut memoir “Kuleana.” She also shares the details of her first visit to the Pi'ilanihale Heiau, when she was 8 years old.

Katie HellandAugust 14, 2026

Hawai‘i water polo coach James Robinson steps down

Robinson went 38-11 in his two years at the helm with the Rainbow Wahine.

Christian ShimabukuAugust 14, 2026

Neon, its birth and death in Hawai‘i

Bright, colorful neon signs debuted in the Islands nearly a century ago, with literal Hollywood glamor — the Waikīkī, Kūhiō and other movie palaces used them. Restaurants and small businesses of all kinds went for neon, too. Over time, they became associated with dive bars and the bad side of town. ASD history writer DeSoto Brown revisits and the highs and lows of this distinctly 20th-century form of advertising.

DeSoto BrownAugust 14, 2026

AIA Honolulu celebrates 21 years of CANstruction

The annual event will move to a new home in Downtown Honolulu this year.

Stephanie SalmonsAugust 13, 2026

Green Times Matcha is bringing mango matcha to Made in Hawaiʻi Festival

The business, owned by Jinie Ho, recently celebrated its first anniversary. Green Times Matcha is a first-time vendor at this year’s Made in Hawaiʻi Festival. It will have two booths at the festival — a regular vendor booth, and the biz will also be at the Kilo Summit on the third floor.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 13, 2026

OpenAI Models escape sandbox, hack Hugging Face: Why AI coordination should worry us

Two AI models slipped out of a sealed testing environment, hacked a real company to steal an answer key, and left their coordination notes on an internal message board. ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa on what machines that plan together mean for the fragile systems we live by.

Sterling HigaAugust 13, 2026

Hamada: Don't be numb to warnings

Impending disasters get the same amount of hype in advance, whether they come to pass or not. With Tropical Storm Lala approaching, ASD opinion columnist Rick Hamada says it's best to prepare for the worst rather than assume nothing will happen just because previous predictions fizzled.

Rick HamadaAugust 13, 2026

New skewers spot opening in Honolulu

Enkari, a modern Chinese tavern, is soft opening on Aug. 15 in the Kapahulu neighborhood. The eatery is known for its charcoal-grilled skewers; choose from pork belly, lamb, chicken thigh and more. Enkari will be open from 5 p.m. to midnight every day except Wednesdays.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 13, 2026

Hawai‘i Athletics launches Shoji Society

On Wednesday, a press conference was held to announce the school's new fundraising initiative, named in honor of one of its most iconic coaches.

Christian ShimabukuAugust 13, 2026

Hawaiian Council acquires Sea Life Park near Waimānalo

"Sometimes you go looking for opportunities, and sometimes the kuleana finds you," Hawaiian Council CEO Kūhiō Lewis told Aloha State Daily of the acquisition. "This was one of those opportunities."

Stephanie SalmonsAugust 13, 2026

Bishop Museum opens auction for E Ulu A Paʻa

This annual fundraiser for the museum includes a gala with keynote speakers Sig and Kūhaʻo Zane, as well as an online auction with more than 80 items, including behind-the-scenes tours of Bishop Museum.

Katie HellandAugust 13, 2026

Honolulu City Council considers lowering motor vehicle weight tax

Bill 47, proposed by Chair Tommy Waters, aims to lower the motor vehicle weight tax by 1.5 cents per pound.

Haley LehmanAugust 13, 2026

Letter to the Editor: A statement of hubris, sure, but 'bombastic'?

A reader from Honolulu writes in to thank Aloha State Daily columnist Perry Arrasmith for his recent article but questions what was really going on during 1954 with both political parties.

Letters to the EditorAugust 13, 2026

Community Voices: Taxation of Envy

Local media points to the recent enactment of the millionaires’ 13% tax bracket as evidence of lawmakers making “the wealthy” pay their “fair share.” It may be a millionaire’s tax today, Tom Yamachika argues; however, next year and beyond, it could change to a tax on half a million because those people are “wealthy.”

Tom YamachikaAugust 13, 2026

Save the date for The Best of Hawaiʻi’s Best Kitchens event

The 11th annual event is coming up Saturday, Aug. 29, at Hyatt Regency Waikīkī Beach Resort & Spa. Attendees can look forward to specialty dishes from restaurants like Adez Steakhouse & Lounge, Arancino Ristorante Italiano, The Buffet at Hyatt, Solera Waikīkī and more.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 12, 2026

What's new at, and coming to, Ala Moana Center

The shopping center has recently welcomed a number of new tenants with more coming soon.

Stephanie SalmonsAugust 12, 2026

Līhu‘e-based Melrose is reopen for business

The business is known for its signature beverages, fresh-baked pastries and aesthetic ambiance. Following the Kona Low storms this spring, the café’s ceiling caved in, forcing the business to close for almost two months. Melrose reopened to the public this summer with its signature offerings, along with new products.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 12, 2026

LALA UPDATE: Over 100K Hawaiian Electric customers without power Monday

As of Monday morning, approximately 117,120 Hawaiian Electric customers are without power, though, all warnings and watches associated with Hurricane Lala have been canceled. A brown water advisory remains in place for all Hawaiian Islands.

Michael Brestovansky & Haley LehmanAugust 12, 2026

Marujuu is launching sizzling skillet washugyu burgers

The Kaimukī eatery, known for its Japanese-style hamburger steaks, is launching its new sizzling skillet washugyu burgers this Friday, Aug. 14. Burgers are made with 100% washugyu patties and come in flavors like classic, teriyaki, wasabi mayo and Gorgonzola.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 12, 2026

The Ghost of a Queen

Queen Emma was instrumental in establishing the Anglican Church in Hawaii and in 1867, she founded St. Andrew’s Priory School for Girls, to uplift the young women of Hawai‘i. The school meant the world to her, so is it any wonder that people claim to still see her presence there? Ghostly nuns and mysterious voices have also been encountered, spirits that seem more nurturing than frightening.

Lopaka Kapanui and Tanya KapanuiAugust 12, 2026

Wahine soccer adjusts to home matches on campus amid field issues at Waipi‘o

The Rainbow Wahine, who officially open their season on Thursday against No. 23 Texas Tech, are currently scheduled to play their first seven home contests of the season on campus.

Christian ShimabukuAugust 12, 2026

Mary Kawena Pukui Learning Commons unveiled at Punahou School

The new center, named after the Hawaiian historian and scholar who taught at Punahou in the 1930s, replaces the school’s former Cooke Library. Aloha State Daily sat down with President Mike Latham to learn more about Pukui’s history at Punahou and in the broader community, as well as how her legacy continues to shape the next generation of students.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 12, 2026

Maui County Council votes to expand fare-free bus access

Bill 95 expands eligibility for the fare-free bus access program to include more residents and gives authorization to the county's the director of transportation to suspend enforcement of fares for special events, parades or emergency closures for up to 14 days in a fiscal year.

Haley LehmanAugust 12, 2026

Canada man pleads guilty to airline fraud

Dallas Pokornik posed as a pilot to receive "hundreds" of free flights for years.

Michael BrestovanskyAugust 12, 2026

Maui interior designer aims to support Lahaina homeowners rebuilding after wildfires

A new one-on-one advisory service, Lahaina Rebuild Design Guidance, was created as an alternative to full-service interior design and offers "focused professional support during key phases of rebuilding."

Stephanie SalmonsAugust 12, 2026

UPDATED: Laughs, carnivals and more: What to do on Oʻahu this weekend

From the ʻEwa Carnival to a preview of the “Carnival of the Nearly Extinct Animals,” which features a violinist, harpist and ballet dancer, there are lots of things to do on Oʻahu this weekend. Check out Aloha State Daily's guide to this Friday, Saturday and Sunday. (See article for notes on storm cancellations.)

Katie HellandAugust 12, 2026

What Hawai‘i’s 1954 Democratic Party platform says about today

Hawai‘i has been a virtual one-party state since statehood, but how did that happen? ASD political historian Perry Arrasmith explores how, with a look at the local Democratic Party's 1954 platform and a comparison with the party's current priorities.

Perry ArrasmithAugust 11, 2026

Dean & Deluca Hawaiʻi has a new afternoon tea menu

The Artisan Loft, located upstairs in Dean & Deluca Hawaiʻi at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikīkī Beach, recently launched a new afternoon tea menu. The urban picnic-style afternoon tea menu debuted last month, and features savory and sweet options like furikake-seared ‘ahi, ube mont blanc tarts, mango cheesecakes and more.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 11, 2026

Takagi Coffee is a new Japanese-style cafe pop-up in Honolulu

The pop-up is opening to the public on Thursday, Aug. 13, at 10 a.m. It’s within Royal Hawaiian Center’s TsuruTonTan, and for the first few days, the pop-up will be limited to the first 60 customers. Takagi Coffee is serving up sweet and savory Japanese souffle pancakes, omurice, wagyu hamburger steak and layered parfaits.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 11, 2026

Community Voices: Grassroot still stands with Lahaina, three years later

"I’m not sure I believe Hawaiʻi residents are losing interest in Lahaina," writes Keli‘i Akina on the day of the three-year anniversary of the Maui wildfires. "As president of the Grassroot Institute, I promise you that our team remains as committed as ever to Maui’s recovery."

Keliʻi AkinaAugust 11, 2026

Aloha Stadium prepares for next round of milestones

New renderings for the 31,000-seat stadium are expected soon, while groundbreaking is targeted to begin towards the end of the year.

Christian ShimabukuAugust 11, 2026

Office of Economic Revitalization slated to close Friday

The City and County of Honolulu Office of Revitalization announced Aug. 7 that it will close on Friday, Aug. 14, after the Honolulu City Council cut the office’s budget by $2 million.

Haley LehmanAugust 11, 2026

Now streaming: 'ʻAuana' soundtrack

John Signor, band leader of "ʻAuana," Cirque du Soleil's first resident production in Hawaiʻi, shares his favorite song in the show and how lyrics in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi add levels of meaning to the storytelling.

Katie HellandAugust 11, 2026

Palantir protest draws mid-sized crowd to Bishop and Queen streets

Organized by ACLU of Hawaiʻi and Indivisible Hawaiʻi, among others in the community, a peaceful protest was held Monday outside of Pacific Guardian Center, where Palantir Technologies has operated as an unlisted tenant for nearly a year.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 11, 2026

Maui, Kaua‘i counties sued over 2024 election data

Federal lawsuit latest in series of legal challenges surrounding the state's and counties' handling of 2024 election data.

Michael BrestovanskyAugust 11, 2026

Oʻahu-based family business is 'on a roll'

Hele Rolls, known for its homemade cinnamon rolls, started its business last June. The biz regularly pops up at events across Oʻahu and accepts pre-orders. Hele Rolls is also competing on the new season of Food Network’s "The Great Food Truck Race," which premiered on July 26.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 10, 2026

Maui Police corruption case shows why Hawaiʻi needs federal law enforcement

A Maui police lieutenant allegedly arranged his bribes over burner phones and Instagram, certain no one could read them. The FBI read every word. ASD columnist Sterling Higa on why corruption is only ever answered from the rung above.

Sterling HigaAugust 10, 2026

This Kakaʻako brunch spot is now open for dinner

Westman Cafe, which opened in March in Kōʻula at Ward Village, recently started opening for dinner. Diners can look forward to dishes like mahi mahi loco moco, oxtail soup, ʻahi tataki and more.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 10, 2026

Liquid natural gas proposal builds momentum

$2 billion facility in Kapolei could go online by 2030.

Michael BrestovanskyAugust 10, 2026

Community Voices: Punahou student raises concerns about Palantir Technologies in Honolulu

Zane Dalgamouni, a 15-year-old student at Punahou, fears a future where his every move is watched and free speech is threatened. He concludes, "We do not have to accept a future dictated by unaccountable tech giants," including Palantir Technologies, a Miami-headquartered corporation that is hiring now in the Islands.

Zane DalgamouniAugust 10, 2026

Who's winning in the primary election?

Here's how the most hotly contested races stand as of Sunday.

Michael BrestovanskyAugust 09, 2026

Maui County hosted free community event in Lahaina, three years since the wildfires

Three years after the devastating 2023 Maui wildfires, the Lahaina community gathered in remembrance during an all-day event Saturday put on by the county and its volunteers. This year, Kuhinia Maui featured live music, free activities, meals and more, held at Lahaina United Methodist Church near Front Street.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 09, 2026

Case, Tokuda, keep seats after blowout primary

Early results from the state primary elections indicate an all-but-assured victory for Hawai‘i's incumbent representatives.

Michael BrestovanskyAugust 09, 2026

Button Up Cafe is now open in a bigger space

The Pearl City brunch spot — known for dishes like strawberry cheesecake stuffed French toast, corned beef hash loco moco and Korean braised short rib eggs Benedict — has been open in Pearl City Plaza since 2016. The biz just relocated to a larger space within the same plaza, and reopened today.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 09, 2026

Lahaina banyan tree to remain fenced off for two more years

The 153-year-old tree was damaged by the heat produced in the August 2023 wildfires but remained largely unburned.

Stephanie SalmonsAugust 08, 2026

Lahaina harbor dredging project nearly half done

More than 8,300 cubic yards of material dredged from fire-damaged harbor

Michael BrestovanskyAugust 08, 2026

'The Queen’s Will' premieres in Honolulu

The world premiere of a new play, “The Queen’s Will,” is headed for Kumu Kahua Theatre. Playwright Sean T.C. O’Malley shares how more than 500 articles helped inspire the show, which takes the stage for the first time this month.

Katie HellandAugust 08, 2026

Three years after wildfires, here's what's changed at Maui Emergency Management Agency

Maui Emergency Management Agency Administrator Amos Lonokailua-Hewett stepped into the role in January 2024, just months after wildfires devastated parts of the Valley Isle in August 2023.

Stephanie SalmonsAugust 08, 2026

The breakthrough that Hawai‘i needs: Measuring what leaders do

It’s time for a change. Leadership is more than charisma or slogans; it requires choosing real problems and acting with enough integrity and reasonableness that the public can judge results fairly. ASD introduces a new data-driven opinion column to help readers understand what works in Hawai‘i, what doesn't, and how we stack up against other states.

Peter S. Adler & PhDAugust 08, 2026

Aisiah 'Scoob' Paogofie emerges as potential impact player for Hawai‘i football

Paogofie, a second year linebacker out of Campbell, has turned heads so far during preseason training camp for the Rainbow Warriors.

Christian ShimabukuAugust 07, 2026

We Heart Cake Co. has a new Honolulu store

The dessert shop — which used to be in Kaimukī — is now open in McCully. The biz is celebrating its grand opening on Saturday, Aug. 8, with free cake pops for the first 102 customers from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 07, 2026

Specialty Okinawa soba pop-up coming to The Kāhala Hotel & Resort

Chef Eibun Nakamura, known for his specialty soba, is bringing his Okinawa soba to The Kāhala Hotel & Resort’s Plumeria Beach House. Soba will be available as part of the restaurant's seafood dinner buffet on Aug. 14 and 15, and as part of the a la carte dinner menu on Aug. 13 and 16.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 07, 2026

Compassion leads Regina DoDaro's approach to Hawaiʻi Island animal control

Regina DoDaro took the helm of the Hawaiʻi County's Animal Control and Protection Agency on Aug. 3.

Haley LehmanAugust 07, 2026

Lahaina, three years after the fires

It's been three years since wildfires destroyed much of Lahaina Town. Recovery is still underway but work to rebuild is progressing.

Stephanie SalmonsAugust 07, 2026

Castle High School kicks off 75th anniversary with community event

Last week, the public high school in Kāneʻohe celebrated its 75th anniversary with an open house free to the public, complete with food trucks, vendors and live performances. This was the first event of a few planned for the school year, which will culminate in March. Aloha State Daily spoke with Principal Bernadette Tyrell, Ph.D., as well as teachers, alumni and students who helped put together this fundraiser.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 07, 2026

Hawai‘i soccer makes lei for Lahaina wildfire victims ahead of weekend Maui trip

The Rainbow Wahine will play an exhibition game against Seattle on the Valley Isle on Sunday, a trip in which both programs will also honor victims of the 2023 Lahaina wildfires.

Christian ShimabukuAugust 07, 2026

Community Voices: How Hawai‘i's latest bribery scandal blocked healthcare access

Rep. Ryan Yamane, recently indicted for bribery, allegedly killed a bill that would have exempted certain critical categories of health care facilities from the state's onerous Certificate of Need requirements. As a result, treatments like dialysis remain in short supply.

Malia HillAugust 07, 2026

Honolulu DPP requires use of AI tool for residential project permit applications

The City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Planning and Permitting announced this week that applicants will be required to use an artificial intelligence tool to submit residential project permit applications. Julia Fink, executive vice president of AIA Honolulu, shared with ASD why the organization is advocating for this AI.

Haley LehmanAugust 07, 2026

Maui police lieutenant charged with corruption

Michael Vaitu‘ulala, a 17-year veteran of the Maui Police Department, allegedly took thousands of dollars in bribes to protect illegal cockfights, drug deals, and more.

Michael BrestovanskyAugust 07, 2026

Changing Kaka‘ako: The first on Kaka‘ako’s Automobile Row

Shiny, new high-rise condos are popping up all over Kaka‘ako, and it isn't the first time a trend changed the neighborhood. In the 1950s, the new kids on the blocks were car dealerships. The first of these, in 1958, was for Volkswagen.

DeSoto BrownAugust 07, 2026

Waikīkī resort opens entertainment center

Family bowling is possible in Waikīkī at this entertainment center, which opened in June. The 6,000-square-foot space also includes more than 60 arcade games.

Katie HellandAugust 07, 2026

Southwest launches nonstop flights between Hilo, Las Vegas

The service began Aug. 6.

Stephanie SalmonsAugust 07, 2026

Rigo has a new happy hour

The Spanish Italian restaurant on Kapahulu Avenue launched a happy hour for the first time. Happy hour is available daily from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; the eatery also has a lunch happy hour from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Enjoy discounted drinks and tapas, including seafood platters, fresh oysters, and Rigo’s popular jamon serrano.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 07, 2026

Naks Cafe offers gourmet takeout meals in Pearl City

The business, which is located next to the Don Quijote Pearl City Food Court, has been open for one year. Business owner Nathan Wu strives to provide the community with affordable, high-quality meals for takeout.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 06, 2026

New salt bread bakery in Honolulu

Kilo Deli just opened on Kapiʻolani Boulevard, in the former space of Hawaiʻi Banchan Co. The bakery specializes in salt bread, which is available in flavors like original, truffle and spicy arabiki. Salt breads are limited to four per customer. Kilo Deli is currently open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., or until sold out.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 06, 2026

Three Oʻahu contestants advance to ‘America’s Got Talent’ live shows

Several acts featuring Oʻahu residents earned spots in the live shows of “America’s Got Talent.” The grand prize of the talent competition is $1 million, plus a potentially career-changing platform with an audience that spans more than 20 countries.

Katie HellandAugust 06, 2026

DLNR proposing stricter wildlife conservation rules

Harassing native wildlife to be prohibited under proposed rules.

Michael BrestovanskyAugust 06, 2026

Kaua‘i's Kawaihau Community Little League continues historic run this weekend

Kawaihau will be the state's representative in the Little League World Series West Regional, which begins on Sunday in San Bernardino, Calif.

Christian ShimabukuAugust 06, 2026

Mahana Ward Village sales gallery to open Aug. 8

The mixed-use development will feature 451 studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom residences and about 13,600 square feet of ground-floor commercial space.

Stephanie SalmonsAugust 06, 2026

In Hawai‘i, where are the multimember districts?

Election season is a good time to ask — why doesn't Hawai‘i go back to having multimember districts? In a such a system, more of Hawai‘i's voters would have representation in the state Legislature.

Perry ArrasmithAugust 05, 2026

Her daughter was murdered in 2014 — now she’s dedicated to helping other victims

Charli Scott was a Maui woman who was murdered in 2014 at age 27 when she was five months pregnant. In the 12 years since her daughter’s death, Kimberlyn Scott has dedicated herself to helping families of missing persons.

Christina O'ConnorAugust 05, 2026

Bakehouse by Island Brew is open in Hawaiʻi Kai

The new bakery, whose sister company is Island Brew Coffeehouse, is celebrating its grand opening this Saturday, Aug. 8. The shop offers freshly baked pastries like chocolate chip muffins, salt bread, biscuits with honey butter and oatmeal raisin cookies. It also features gluten-free pastries and other desserts like bingsu.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 05, 2026

Orchids revamps its Sunday brunch, adds executive business lunch for weekday dining

The popular Halekūlani eatery added a new artisan station — which includes hummus, chicken liver pate, pickled vegetables and more — along with Italian sausage and paella to its Sunday brunch buffet. Orchids also started a business lunch option, available from Monday to Friday.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 05, 2026

The races to watch

ASD opinion columnist Rick Hamada talks about the races he's most closely watching in the upcoming Primary Election. Is it going to be Case or Keohokalole? Tokuda or Awa? What about the LG's race? And he has questions for you about the elections and politics in Hawai‘i for further discussion.

Rick HamadaAugust 05, 2026

Beneath the Sand at Hūnānāniho

Waimānalo is one of the earliest human settlements on O‘ahu, dating back as much as a thousand years. For Native Hawaiians, it was a pu‘uhonua, a place of refuge. Later the area hosted a sugar plantation then a military airfield. In 2021, the City and County of Honolulu restored Waimānalo Bay Beach Park's traditional name, Hūnānāniho. Some say that's not the only presence from the past that walks the beach when the moon is just right.

Lopaka Kapanui and Tanya KapanuiAugust 05, 2026

Campbell alumnus Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele eyes NFL future while at Cal

The star left-handed quarterback has already earned top pick projections in the 2028 NFL Draft ahead of his sophomore year of college football.

Christian ShimabukuAugust 05, 2026

Hawaiian Homes Commission lawsuit continues after evictions averted

Two Kaua‘i renters can stay in their apartments while their suit against the Hawaiian Homes Commission, which previously attempted to evict them, goes forward.

Michael BrestovanskyAugust 05, 2026

Crews start Mānoa Stream flood mitigation

Crews started work on the Mānoa Stream this week in an effort to improve water flow, reduce potential flooding risks and maintain the functionality of Oʻahu's drainage system.

Haley LehmanAugust 05, 2026

Reddit advice, AI chatbots, and the counsel of strangers

A YouTube ad promised answers from “parents who get you.” ASD columnist Sterling Higa on why the counsel of strangers, now trained into our machines, is no substitute for a friend who knows you.

Sterling HigaAugust 05, 2026

A staple in the Lahaina community: Pizza Paradiso and Pineapple Robot

Pizza Paradiso, which has been open since 1995, was taken over by Hana Hou Hospitality Group three years ago. The restaurant became a community hub following the Lahaina fires. In October 2024, as a way to revitalize Lahaina's nightlife, Hana Hou Hospitality Group expanded the restaurant to include a karaoke bar called Pineapple Robot.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 05, 2026

Eat spam and vote: Oʻahu weekend guide

Looking for fun things to do this Friday, Aug. 7, through Sunday, Aug. 9? From celebrating National Spam Musubi Day to casting your vote in statewide elections, Aloha State Daily has your guide for how to spend the weekend.

Katie HellandAugust 05, 2026

Tickets on sale for 32nd annual Made in Hawai‘i Festival

The largest-ever MIHF is set for Aug. 20-23. We've got more details about what you can expect during the event.

Stephanie SalmonsAugust 05, 2026

Mai Musubi now offers Japanese curry

The Kakaʻako musubi shop now offers Japanese-style curry for dine-in and takeout. Customers can choose from tonkatsu, chicken karaage, shrimp katsu, potato croquette and more. The biz also extended its hours on weekends.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 04, 2026

Community Voices: Seattle artist reclaims culture through kapa making

“I’m not trying to gatekeep knowledge,” she said of her school and work experience both on the Mainland and on Oʻahu. “I’m trying to share it as much as possible.”

Megan Ulu-Lani BoyantonAugust 04, 2026

Mililani's new dynamic duo looks to take Trojans back to HHSAA mountaintop

Former Punahou teammates Zion White and Hunter Fujikawa are reunited at Mililani and have the Trojans thinking big ahead of the 2026 high school football season.

Christian ShimabukuAugust 04, 2026

Waiʻanae man accused of illegally hunting on West Oʻahu ranch

The Hawaiʻi Department of Law Enforcement arrested a Waiʻanae man on July 25 for allegedly illegally hunting on private land.

Haley LehmanAugust 04, 2026

Raina Huang returns for four Hawaiʻi eating contests

This celebrity competitive eater will be in Honolulu this week, with stops at the Korean Festival Hawaiʻi, Nori Bar Waikīkī and Oh My Grill.

Katie HellandAugust 04, 2026

David Shapiro hits a triple bogey

A freshman legislator is handed a budget the size of a phone book and told to master it. ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa on why the cure for corruption is shrinking the prize, not rewriting the rules.

Sterling HigaAugust 04, 2026

‘Past, present and future’: Hawaiian Council’s Native Hawaiian Convention and keiki hula competition focused on next generation of ʻŌiwi leaders

Aloha State Daily recently attended the Native Hawaiian Convention hosted by Hawaiian Council on Oʻahu. The organization’s CEO Kūhio Lewis shares highlights from the events, which this year included new technology and opportunities for keiki to gain confidence by showcasing dance and selling their locally made products.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosAugust 03, 2026

Toyota recalls certain airbag parts used as replacements in some Tundra, Tacoma models

About 4,100 service parts are involved in the U.S. recall, the company said.

Stephanie SalmonsAugust 03, 2026

The Kiwi Korner offers authentic meat pies

Mac and Angie Schwenke — who are from New Zealand — starting selling meat pies for extra income during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2021. Now, five years later, their Kiwi Koner business has two locations and features meat pies in flavors like pepper steak, steak and cheese, chicken curry and more.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 03, 2026

Budget Bites: Zippy’s $10.99 plates

The business is offering $10.99 spaghetti and chicken mixed plates as an August special. This discounted price is available for takeout orders from Aug. 3 to 30; plates are limited to five per person.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 03, 2026

Kam Bowl is open in Pearl City

The eatery is now open in Times Square Shopping Center, in the former space of IHOP. Customers can look forward to signature dishes like oxtail soup, loco moco, hamburger steak and more.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaAugust 02, 2026

Nānākuli High and Intermediate School to get police School Resource Officers

Nearly three years ago, Kaui Asinsin started advocating for the creation of a School Resource Officer program in Nānākuli. The Hawaiʻi Department of Education and Honolulu Police Department announced the expansion of the pilot program to include Nānākuli High and Intermediate School on Friday morning.

Haley LehmanAugust 01, 2026

Hawai‘i men's basketball set for Australia foreign tour

The Rainbow Warriors will be in Sydney from Aug. 6-13 and will play scrimmages against a pair of professional teams.

Christian ShimabukuAugust 01, 2026

Exclusive video: North Shore brothers talk about ʻAmerica’s Got Talent’

Nyjah Music & Zyah Rhythm, the North Shore brothers who are also the nephews of Bruno Mars are back on “America’s Got Talent.” Catch them singing for Simon Cowell at his house in an episode that airs Tuesday, Aug. 4. They also unpack their latest single “Heartbeat,” which was inspired by their grandmother, and the cheehoo that calmed their nerves during auditions.

Katie HellandAugust 01, 2026

Green makes appointments to Hawaiian Homes, Campaign Spending, Ethics commissions

Among the appointees, Green reappointed Kali Watson as chair of the Hawaiian Homes Commission.

Stephanie SalmonsAugust 01, 2026

Community Voices: Giving Kūpeke Back to Itself

Located on the east end of Molokai, the ahupuaʻa of Kūpeke includes about 300 acres, from the top of the mountain to the shoreline and out to the fishpond wall. Laʻa Poepoe’s stewardship of Kūpeke is the confluence of his Molokai lineage, aloha for his community, a passion to mālama ʻāina, an unshakable work ethic, and his foresight.

Puanani Fernandez-Akamine & Hannah Kaʻiulani CoburnJuly 31, 2026

Q&A with Bishop Museum CEO Kris Helgen

This mammal-discovering scientist is now the president and CEO of Bishop Museum. Helgen shares some of the biggest challenges and accomplishments of the past year, which is his first 12 months in the role.

Katie HellandJuly 31, 2026

The 22nd annual Korean Festival is coming Aug. 8

The event is free to attend, and will be from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 8, at Kapiʻolani Park. Attendees can look forward to Korean food, cultural experiences, family-friendly activities and live performances.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 31, 2026

Budget Bites: Yujin K-Bowl’s $6 bowls

The Waipahu business offers Korean-style bowls for takeout only. Bowls include a choice of protein, rice, corn and japchae.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 31, 2026

Hawai‘i women's volleyball gears up for first season of Joshua Walker era

Led by their new head coach, the Rainbow Wahine held their first preseason practice on Thursday afternoon.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 31, 2026

UPDATED: Spectrum, Charter Communications lay off several local employees

Spectrum’s local news division has recently laid off all of its journalists, per an employee, in addition to fewer than 10 employees at the Spectrum Store near Mililani Tech Park and neighboring corporate call center facility, officials with the company recently told Aloha State Daily.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 31, 2026

'Slow down': New school year brings new speeds in school zones

The Department of Transportation Services is updating traffic signs across Oʻahu to reflect speed limits of 20 miles per hour in school zones from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on school days.

Haley LehmanJuly 31, 2026

Hawaiʻi officials accused of bribery plead not guilty

Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke, former Rep. Ryan Yamane, lobbyist Tobi Solidum, former chair of the state Public Utilities Commission Leodoloff Asuncion Jr., and Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation Airports Administrator Ford Fuchigami pleaded not guilty to corruption charges Thursday morning.

Haley LehmanJuly 31, 2026

Smith & Kings is revamping its brunch menu

The Chinatown eatery’s brunch is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Customers can look forward to new dishes like Monte Cristo, peanut butter and jelly French toast, eggs Florentine and more.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 31, 2026

Chubbies Burgers is opening in Kakaʻako

“The rumors are true,” the business posted on its Instagram. No specific date or address — other than SALT Kakaʻako — is revealed for the business.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 31, 2026

Kale’s Hale is launching a limited-time wagyu special

The Kalihi-based eatery is known for its all-you-can-eat Hawaiian fusion yakiniku experience. For all of August, Kale’s Hale will offer a wagyu add-on for $5 per ounce. Customers who purchase an AYCE meal can take advantage of this discount from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays to Fridays.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 30, 2026

Aloha State Daily named 'Best Overall News Site'

The Hawai‘i Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists held its annual awards Wednesday night. For our work throughout 2025 — our first year —Aloha State Daily won 14 awards, including best online news site.

A. Kam NapierJuly 30, 2026

Honolulu's restaurant corner

With its high traffic and visibility, the corner of Kapi‘olani Boulevard and Kalākaua Avenue has attracted a series of legendary eateries over the decades. ASD history columnist DeSoto Brown revisits them all — Kau Kau Korner, Coco's, Hard Rock Café (much of the latter's building now serving as the home of Chick-fil-A's only sit-down restaurant).

DeSoto BrownJuly 30, 2026

Second phase of Central O‘ahu affordable rentals are now open

A blessing ceremony was held this week for Koa Vista II, the second phase of a new two-phase development located within Koa Ridge.

Stephanie SalmonsJuly 30, 2026

Letter to the Editor: Reader thanks ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa for ʻike

A reader from Lāʻie writes in to Aloha State Daily to thank Higa, who has opined on the stateʻs "increasingly steep slide into societal suicide."

Letters to the EditorJuly 30, 2026

Ward Centre closed; looming demolition will make way for new Ward Village towers

Although a timeline has not yet been finalized, sources say that demolition and redevelopment work at the site is expected to begin later this year.

Stephanie SalmonsJuly 30, 2026

Hawai‘i football kicks off fall camp with key returns and losses

While Micah Alejado returned to the practice field, star receiver Pofele Ashlock will be sidelined for a chunk of fall camp, head coach Timmy Chang acknowledged on Wednesday.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 30, 2026

Inside Ballet Hawaiʻi’s ʻForces of Natureʻ

From a volcanic eruption to the four seasons, Ballet Hawaiʻi will put music to movement as part of the capstone performance of its summer intensive, which features students as well as soloists from across the country.

Katie HellandJuly 30, 2026

Mu‘u and mimosas afternoon tea is now every Saturday

Kaimana Beach Hotel’s afternoon tea is available weekly starting at 2 p.m. The experience costs $55 per person and guests can enjoy a variety of sweet and savory baked goods, along with live entertainment.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 29, 2026

Kapa‘a Quarry landfill plan spurs pushback

Plan to repeal landfill restrictions to build a landfill at the Kapa‘a Quarry already controversial

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 29, 2026

Kamitoku Ramen moves from Ward Centre to South Shore Market

The business — known for its beef bone broth ramen — just soft opened in the former space of Scratch Kitchen & Meatery. In addition to its popular ramen bowls, the biz also added new dishes — like wild oxtail soup and wagyu rib-eye katsu bowls — to its menu.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 29, 2026

Primary election coming Aug. 8

Voting in Hawaiʻi is no longer a single-day event; registered voters now have an extended window of time to vote.

July 29, 2026

Hamada: Hot takes on bribery, Tommy Waters, Hāna Highway confrontation

With so much in the news, ASD opinion columnist weighs in on the state's bribery scandal, Tommy Waters' attempt at a third term and a recent ugly confrontation between locals and tourists in the Hāna Highway.

Rick HamadaJuly 29, 2026

Secrets of the Scottish Rite Cathedral

ASD's ghost and history columnists themselves had a very strange experience giving a tour of Makiki's Scottish Rite Cathedral. The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry was welcomed into the Islands in 1874 by King David Kalākaua and John Owen Dominis, husband of Queen Lili‘uokalani. Its members have a long history of service to community, with an air of Masonic mystery.

Lopaka Kapanui and Tanya KapanuiJuly 29, 2026

Pipikaula Corner: Fauci revealed as fear-mongering, fame-loving fraud

It's not getting much media attention, but the private diaries of Dr. Anthony Fauci have been published online by Sen. Rand Paul in advance of his hearings this week into Fauci and Covid-19. What they reveal across thousands of pages is man in love with the adulation he received, who privately knew that many of things he said publicly about the pandemic were wild exaggerations.

A. Kam NapierJuly 29, 2026

Preseason practices underway for Hawai‘i soccer team ahead of 2026 season

The 2026 season, which officially begins on Aug. 13 against Texas Tech, will be Michele Nagamine's 15th at the helm of the Rainbow Wahine.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 29, 2026

State airports administrator on paid leave following bribery indictment

Ford Fuchigami will appear in court Thursday along with Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 29, 2026

Kaua‘i renters facing eviction sue Hawaiian Homes Commission

The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands purchased a Kapa‘a apartment complex to help DHHL beneficiaries in 2024, but tenants who don't meet the department's blood quantum requirement have been served eviction notices, suit alleges.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 29, 2026

Pho Que Huong opens second location in Honolulu

The popular Vietnamese eatery — which opened its first location in Chinatown about nine years ago — just opened on Kapiʻolani Boulevard. To celebrate the restaurant’s opening, customers can enjoy 20% off their entire meal until July 30.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 29, 2026

Bon dance, 'Les Misérables,' and laughs: what to do on Oʻahu this weekend

Ready to plan your weekend? Aloha State Daily can help! From a Bon dance in Waipahu to a Comedy U and Consolidated Theatres collaboration in Kapolei, there are lots of events happening across Oʻahu this Friday, July 31, through Sunday, Aug. 2.

Katie HellandJuly 29, 2026

Tommy Waters term limits ruling: Why the Council Chair should step aside

A judge ruled Monday that Tommy Waters has already served his two terms — while voters were filling out ballots bearing his name. ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa on the difference between fighting for the people within the law and fighting the people with it.

Sterling HigaJuly 29, 2026

New eateries planned for Kamehameha Schools' Mō‘ili‘ili redevelopment

Eleven tenants for Waiānuenue at Kapa‘akea have so far been announced.

Stephanie SalmonsJuly 28, 2026

Gyu-Kaku Japanese Barbecue is offering limited-time yakiniku specials

The eatery is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a special "Adventures in Niku" menu, which is available until Sunday, Sept. 6. Diners can take advantage of specials like 1.5 pounds of thinly sliced beef for $35.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 28, 2026

Community Voices: The one-dollar solution

Under the state constitution, surpluses are supposed to be returned to Hawai‘i's taxpayers. Here are some of the games lawmakers and governors play so that the amount returned is always, somehow, just a dollar.

Tom YamachikaJuly 28, 2026

Here's the 'Best in Hawai’i Architecture' in 2026

AIA Honolulu's 68th annual Design Awards, which took place July 24, recognize excellence in architectural design.

Stephanie SalmonsJuly 28, 2026

Tommy Waters ineligible for reelection, court rules

Honolulu Council Chair to appeal court ruling that he has already served for two full consecutive terms.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 28, 2026

Jayden Maiava makes one last stop home before the grind begins again

Maiava, along with USC running back Waymond Jordan, were in the Islands for a special event over the weekend.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 28, 2026

Oʻahu hālau wins top awards at Queen Liliʻuokalani Keiki Hula Competition

An Oʻahu-based hālau took top honors at the Queen Liliʻuokalani Keiki Hula Competition, while one from Maui captured the Hawaiian Language Award. Check out the full list of winners.

Katie HellandJuly 28, 2026

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is giving out free Spam musubis on Aug. 8

In honor of National Spam Musubi Day, participating L&L Hawaiian Barbecue locations in Hawaiʻi and on the Mainland are giving away free Spam musubis from 12 to 4 p.m.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 27, 2026

Canio’s Pizza is serving New York-style slices

Business owner Kip Praissman has been making pizza professionally for more than 10 years. Canio’s Pizza — named after his grandfather — specializes in New York-style pizzas, which are known for their slightly crispy crust that still boasts a nice chew.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 27, 2026

Community Voices: Empty homes tax just empty promises

Grassroot Institute of Hawai‘i helped persuade the Honolulu Charter Commission to not advance a poorly conceived empty homes tax to the ballot. Instead, as GIH proposes, improvements to zoning and permitting could speed the supply of housing.

Keliʻi AkinaJuly 26, 2026

Hawaiʻi’s first solo dining katsu experience is opening in Honolulu

Katsu Zen — located in the former space of Little G Café in the 808 Center — is opening to the public on Wednesday, July 29. Customers can scan the QR code and choose from a variety of katsu bowls and sets; options include pork loin, pork collar, chicken katsu and tiger shrimp katsu.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 26, 2026

Luke indicted for bribery

Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke and four others have been charged in Attorney General corruption investigation

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 25, 2026

New program brings free tennis to Hawai‘i schools

The United States Tennis Association already began its tour of Island schools in March, which brings free lessons and equipment to schools.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 25, 2026

Hawaiʻi population decline: How George Ariyoshi’s managed growth policies shaped today’s crisis

George Ariyoshi dressed for the office he held and trusted the most respected experts of his age — and the experts were wrong. ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa on the population prophecy that failed twice.

Sterling HigaJuly 25, 2026

Here's the best of Hawai‘i, according to the people

The best family attraction, cruise, lū‘au, resort, restaurant and tour company in Hawai‘i have been decided by voters in USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. Read on to see who made the lists.

Stephanie SalmonsJuly 25, 2026

Ala Moana Center to launch luxury shopping event

For two weeks in August, the popular shopping destination will offer shoppers exclusive experiences at 14 luxury boutiques.

Stephanie SalmonsJuly 25, 2026

Senators demand answers after Iran casualties vanish from Pentagon website

Four soldiers, including one from ‘Ewa Beach, are no longer listed as casualties in Iran war on a Department of War website.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 24, 2026

53 By the Sea has a new weekend lunch and happy hour

The restaurant, known for its oceanfront dining, recently launched its weekend lunch and happy hour experiences. The happy hour menu features exclusive dishes like a wagyu burger, seafood roll, and ham and cheese croquettes.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 24, 2026

Miya Bowls is a new acai bowl shop in Wahiawā

The shop — located next to Teapresso — opened recently in the space of Mia Bella gelato shop. Miya Bowls offers build-your-own acai bowls with a variety of bases, ranging from acai and pitaya to mango, coconut, guava and lilikoʻi.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 24, 2026

Frank De Lima is still making everyone laugh

The legendary Island comedian, who recently celebrated his 77th birthday, now resides in Las Vegas and still writes new material.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 24, 2026

Artificial reef coming to Waikīkī

$9 million NOAA project to stimulate coral restoration.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 24, 2026

Updated: Bayer to make changes to Hawai‘i operations

These changes include consolidating some of the company's farm activities on O‘ahu and Maui over time, which will affect more than 70 employees.

Stephanie SalmonsJuly 24, 2026

Changing Kaka‘ako: The first high-rise

Perhaps no urban Honolulu neighborhood has changed more over the past 50 years than Kaka‘ako. ASD history columnist DeSoto Brown looks back on the changes, starting with the skyline, which used to boast but a single high-rise building. That has certainly changed! The condo 1350 Ala Moana once stood as a landmark and now is lost in the crowd.

DeSoto BrownJuly 23, 2026

SinIceStir Speakeasy opens in Honolulu

The hidden lounge — tucked away behind SinIceStir Shave Ice — features handcrafted cocktails and boozy shave ice in a cozy setting, complete with views of Waikīkī Beach. Customers must message the business on Instagram for the speakeasy password, which changes periodically.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 23, 2026

Common Ground launches The Food Fix in downtown Honolulu

AC Hotel Honolulu’s elevated coffee shop just started a new grab-and-go menu with comforting eats like breakfast burritos, grilled cheese sandwiches, croissant sandwiches and more.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 23, 2026

State Supreme Court overturns Maui SMA permit exemptions

A 2024 rule allowing certain projects within the Special Management Area to go forward without a use permit has been overturned.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 23, 2026

New LPGA tournament set to debut on Big Island in 2027

Nanea Golf Club will host the inaugural Nanea Cup on March 11-14, with features a $4 million purse.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 23, 2026

Hawaiʻi millionaire tax: Why the new 13% bracket won’t be the last

The millionaire tax passed with barely a murmur. ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa on why the measures nobody argues about deserve the second look.

Sterling HigaJuly 23, 2026

Hamada: Thirty years of infamy for our business climate — when does that change?

Hawai‘i was just ranked worst in the nation for business. Again. Mainland and local observers have been pointing this out consistently since the 1990s, even, at times, as far back as the 1970s. Well, asks ASD opinion columnist Rick Hamada, who has been in charge all this time?

Rick HamadaJuly 23, 2026

Uncles and Aunties: Vicky Holt Takamine, legendary kumu hula

“My mother was my inspiration,” Takamine told ASD. “I used to watch her dance on the ‘Lucky Luck’ TV show in the 1950s. I begged her to let me go to hula classes, but she said I was too young and that I would quit after a year. I proved her wrong!” In 2025, she was recognized as a Living Treasure of Hawai‘i for her accomplishments — one of several accolades, both local and national, she has received over the years for her contributions to hula and Native Hawaiian arts and culture.

Cheryl Chee TsutsumiJuly 22, 2026

30th annual Walk in the Country Gala is coming this August

The fundraiser, which benefits the Boys & Girls Club of Hawaiʻi, will be at the Four Seasons Resort Oʻahu at Ko Olina on Aug. 8. This is one of the highlights for BGCH, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 22, 2026

Matsumoto’s Okazuya by JV Kitchen is giving out free chow fun

The Kalihi okazuya is giving out complimentary chow fun with every purchase on Aug. 1 to celebrate its first anniversary under new ownership. Business owners Vanessa Pascua and Jay Palma also recently updated the business’s menu and renovated the okazuya interior.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 22, 2026

New book features Hawaiʻi film spots

A new book, set to release in August, highlights the movies and television series that have been filmed on Hawaiʻi Island, Maui, Lānaʻi, Molokai, Oʻahu and Kauaʻi. Written by Ed Rampell and Luis Reyes, the book explores the cinematic histories of spots across the state, including shoutouts for recent film productions, such as "Chief of War" and Disney's live-action "Moana."

Katie HellandJuly 22, 2026

Night Marchers at the Naniloa

Babe Ruth and President Franklin D. Roosevelt are among the Mainland luminaries who planted banyan trees along Banyan Drive. The history of the Hilo area surrounding the Naniloa Hotel goes back to ancient times, and as hotel staff tell it, on some nights the old days come marching through in a mist.

Lopaka Kapanui and Tanya KapanuiJuly 22, 2026

Years later, fate leads Hawai‘i head football coach Timmy Chang back to his alma mater

Fall camp for Chang's fifth season at the helm of his alma mater is set to begin next Wednesday, a role he may have not been in had it not been for a key decision years earlier.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 22, 2026

Iwilei acquisition advances Honolulu's long-term housing strategy

The city purchased 519 Ka‘aahi St. for $2.7 million in a sale that closed June 30. City leaders say its one of the keys that will help them unlock thousands of housing units in the area.

Stephanie SalmonsJuly 22, 2026

'Get used' to new driver's licenses, says Blangiardi

New state ID cards brimming with anti-fraud features.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 22, 2026

Pipikaula Corner: The company they keep

Hawai‘i Democrats invited a special Mainland guest to their annual convention in late May, as keynote speaker. If this is their role model, ASD Editor in Chief A. Kam Napier opines, Hawai‘i is in trouble.

A. Kam NapierJuly 22, 2026

Community Voices: Why care about the Dam Special Fund

Special funds have proliferated in Hawai‘i state government, to now more than 1,800. It's to the point that the Tax Foundation of Hawai‘i says it's impossible to know how much money state government actually has. The foundation sued over one of these funds for failing to follow state constitutional limits. Here's what happened to that case.

Tom YamachikaJuly 22, 2026

The return of Hawai‘i’s Marine Affairs Coordinator

ASD political historian Perry Arrasmith noticed that the state of Hawai‘i has just created a Marine Affairs Coordinator — and it's not the first time. What will the person who gets this position do, and how is different from the last time that Hawai‘i state government created, and eventually abandoned, the same role?

Perry ArrasmithJuly 22, 2026

DKT Jesus & Coffee opens its first storefront in Wahiawā

The business — which stands for “dessert kine thingz” — has a trailer in Kapolei, but just celebrated the grand opening of its new storefront in Wahiawā. The faith-based café features drinks named after books of the Bible, according to owners Janey and Ray Decena.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 21, 2026

Hula, surf films, and more: Friday, July 24, to Sunday, July 26

Ready to plan for the weekend? Aloha State Daily can help! Whether you are looking to catch the Queen Liliʻuokalani Keiki Hula Competition and Festival or watch a free movie at Queen’s Beach in Waikīkī, there are lots of options for weekend fun on Oʻahu.

Katie HellandJuly 21, 2026

Chef Chai just launched a new menu

The Kakaʻako eatery recently updated its menu based on customer feedback. Diners can now find a variety of dishes that were popular at Chai’s Island Bistro — when the eatery was at Aloha Tower — and favorites from the its monthly wine dinners.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 21, 2026

Octogenarian, city, seek settlement in suit over $600,000 fine

A federal lawsuit between Sandra May and the City and County of Honolulu over an improper rental listing is likely to end out of court.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 21, 2026

Maui's Milaniakai Padilla wins national beach volleyball honor

Padilla was named the Amateur Athletic Union's Beach Volleyball Player of the Year on Monday.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 21, 2026

Lahaina's Front Street set to reopen Aug. 1

Repairs and rebuilding in the area have been ongoing since wildfires driven by high winds struck on Aug. 8, 2023, including a blaze that destroyed much of Lahaina Town.

Stephanie SalmonsJuly 21, 2026

NBC, ABC and the Trump speech: The century-old idea behind the networks’ decision

The anchors couldn’t wait for the speech to end. ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa on why the press acts like a priesthood — and why no reform will fix it.

Sterling HigaJuly 21, 2026

Here's what's new at the 32nd annual Made in Hawai‘i Festival

Hawaiian Airlines presents the 32nd Annual Made in Hawai‘i Festival returns to Honolulu in August and organizers say it'll be the biggest festival yet, with more than 800 vendor booths spanning nearly 300,000 square feet across two nights and two full days.

Stephanie SalmonsJuly 21, 2026

Pipikaula Corner: Hawai‘i's election amnesia

A Civil Beat op-ed this weekend freaked out over Pres. Trump's election security speech and the SAVE Act. Memories have gotten pretty short in the Islands; however, because voting in person and showing ID to vote were uncontroversial good-government reforms that Hawai‘i Democrats themselves put in place in 1970. These reforms governed our elections reliably until Democrats changed the laws again in 2019.

A. Kam NapierJuly 21, 2026

Kyoto’s Dragon Burger is now open in Honolulu

The Japan-based burger spot — known for its gourmet wagyu patties and innovative sauces — just soft opened at Midtown Eats food hall at The Park on Keʻeaumoku. The menu is limited for now; the business will celebrate its grand opening on July 25.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 20, 2026

This Pacific Northwest-inspired coffee shop is open on Oʻahu

Hawaiʻi locals Caameron and Monica Nakasone moved back to Oʻahu from Oregon about two years ago. Their new café, Third Space Coffee, features some of their favorite flavors from the Pacific Northwest; the shop is in a shared space with Cake M in the 808 Center.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 20, 2026

Hawaiʻi Island hālau returns for Queen Liliʻuokalani Keiki Hula Competition

Keiki from 15 hālau across the state, including Oʻahu, Maui, Kauaʻi and Hawaiʻi Island, will compete in the Queen Liliʻuokalani Keiki Hula Competition this week. Kumu Kenneth “Aloha” Dean Alohapumehanaokalā Victor shares how he helps the students of Hālau Kala’akeakauikawēkiu embrace fun and dream big.

Katie HellandJuly 20, 2026

Lawsuit against Hawai‘i's chief election officer could go to U.S. Supreme Court

Virginia-based Public Interest Legal Foundation sued Chief Election Officer Scott Nago over access to state voter registration data in 2023.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 18, 2026

Kimo's Restaurant set to return to Lahaina's Front Street

The restaurant was among the businesses lost in the deadly August 2023 wildfire that destroyed much of West Maui community.

Stephanie SalmonsJuly 18, 2026

Hawai‘i women's volleyball releases 2026 schedule, announces assistant coach changes

The Rainbow Wahine will open their season on Aug. 28 against Georgia Southern.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 17, 2026

Hilo man gets 10 years for child porn

Kalana Limkin, 20, founded an online child exploitation ring and attempted to goad children into hurting or killing themselves.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 17, 2026

New weekend brunch option at Pier 38

Thirty Eight Restaurant & Bar just launched a new weekend brunch menu. You can anticipate twists on brunch classics — like chicken and mochi waffles, a savory bread pudding and more — along with seafood-centric dishes.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 17, 2026

Honolulu Coffee Co.’s Bakery on King store is giving out free dot cakes

The business’s flagship store is celebrating its first anniversary on Tuesday, July 21. To commemorate its first birthday, the biz is giving out free dot cakes with any purchase on this day only, while supplies last. Customers can look forward to giveaways and other special deals.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 17, 2026

University of Hawai‘i right at home in new-look Mountain West Conference

After sticking together in the latest round of conference realignment, members of the retooled Mountain West ushered in the league's new era in Las Vegas this week.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 17, 2026

Native Hawaiian Convention returns to Honolulu

Following a convention in Washington last year, the Native Hawaiian Convention hosted by Hawaiian Council has returned to Oʻahu. Learn about the speakers, hands-on cultural workshops and panel discussions planned for this year’s event. There will also be special dedicated events to remember the 50th anniversary of the first landing on Kahoʻolawe.

Katie HellandJuly 17, 2026

2026 legislative session ends with 266 new laws

Gov. Josh Green signed the last bills of the year on Wednesday, and made his final veto decisions.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 17, 2026

Chick-fil-A Kamokila to host fundraiser for River of Life Mission

On Monday, July 20, patrons of Chick-fil-A Kamokila in Kapolei can help support the local, faith-based organization, which for more than 40 years has served neighbors across Oʻahu who are experiencing homelessness, poverty and crisis. Learn more about how to participate in the upcoming Community Care Event.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 17, 2026

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikīkī Beach to partner with Ladurée

The exclusive partnership will bring the French pâtisserie, known for its macarons, to Hawai‘i for the first time.

Stephanie SalmonsJuly 17, 2026

Hawai‘i quarterback Micah Alejado embraces star status at Mountain West media days

Alejado, who is set to enter his second season as UH's starting quarterback, was voted the Mountain West's preseason Offensive Player of the Year on Wednesday.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 17, 2026

Hawai‘i's Mountain West representatives soak up Las Vegas homecoming

Micah Alejado, Cam Barfield, Jamih Otis and Elijah Palmer all played high school football at Bishop Gorman High School, a national powerhouse in Vegas.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 16, 2026

The Beach House by 604 is offering a new Sunday brunch buffet

The Waiʻanae restaurant’s new Sunday brunch buffet features prime rib, crab legs and made-to-order omelets. The buffet was popular with customers for special occasions like Father’s Day, so the restaurant’s goal is to offer it every Sunday.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 16, 2026

This couple is serving up skewers and burgers with a twist

Premium wagyu is the inspiration behind Burger Ave. and Ihawan Ave., which feature gourmet burgers and street-style skewers, respectively. These businesses are run by husband-and-wife team Joshua Dein Pagtama and Enerisa Pagtama. You can find these businesses at various events across Oʻahu, including What the Truck?!

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 16, 2026

Waialua man pleads guilty to violating Iran sanctions

Arash Einolghozati sent thousands of dollars to people in Iran despite longstanding economic sanctions.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 16, 2026

Hawai‘i's Bretman Rock makes 2026 Time100 Creators list

The list recognizes 100 of the "most influential digital voices" of 2026.

Stephanie SalmonsJuly 16, 2026

Green signs laws restricting AI

Regulations are coming to deepfakes and chatbots under new laws.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 16, 2026

Hawaiʻi Act 11: Why the corporate campaign spending ban can’t fix our politics

Hawaiʻi’s new ban on corporate election money assumes the voters are ready to govern themselves. ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa on why self-government can’t be legislated.

Sterling HigaJuly 15, 2026

Where to find Tennessee-style barbecue in Honolulu

Bozie Jones Barbecue — with its signature red trailer on South King Street — has been serving Tennessee-style barbecue for about nearly 10 years. Owner Sean Paul Jones learned how to cook barbecue from his grandfather in Tennessee, and now serves up brisket, barbecue ribs and rib tips.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 15, 2026

First look at Liliha Bakery's new Waikīkī restaurant

The business is opening its sixth location on Oʻahu this Friday, July 17. The Waikīkī Beach Walk restaurant will be open daily and features signature dishes like fried chicken, loco moco, Coco Puffs and poi doughnuts.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 15, 2026

Timmy Chang, UH agree to long-term contract extension, UH AD Matt Elliott says

Chang's current contract was set to expire following the 2026 season.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 15, 2026

Q&A: Hawai‘i director Matt Elliott looks ahead as school officially enters new era

Elliott reflected on his first year at the helm as both he and UH embark on a new era as full-time Mountain West members.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 15, 2026

Aliʻi Coffee Co. is now open at Ala Moana Center

The coffee biz — which closed its Ward Centre and downtown Honolulu locations — recently opened in Ala Moana Center. The menu is the same; customers can enjoy the business’s signature cold brews and lattes. Aliʻi Coffee Co. plans to open another location soon on Monsarrat Avenue.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 15, 2026

Hamada: Airport carjacker skating on kidnapping charge

Lawrence and Rose Ching are stunned that the man who carjacked them at Honolulu International Airport — driving off with their teen daughter in the back seat — isn't getting charged with kidnapping. ASD opinion columnist Rick Hamada agrees and takes a close look at the definition of the crime.

Rick HamadaJuly 15, 2026

Silent Spirits at the Hilo Hawaiian

Life thrived along Hilo Bay and Waiākea Peninsula, with abundant taro lo‘i, fish ponds, for centuries before Western contact. Spiritual life was ever-present and the landscape was dominated by the towering Kūakaʻananuʻu heiau, where men were sacrificed in elaborate ceremonies. Now the site is home to Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, and guests share stories of spectral visitors from long ago.

Lopaka Kapanui and Tanya KapanuiJuly 15, 2026

Police shooting of man in 2025 Mākaha vehicular assault justified

Iosua Stevens was killed in June 2025 after ramming a police car with his truck.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 15, 2026

Kamaʻāina can enjoy limited-time discounts at the Buffet at Hyatt

Hyatt Regency Waikīkī Beach Resort & Spa recently updated its buffet menu to include more Island-inspired dishes. As part of the resort’s 50th anniversary celebration, kamaʻāina can enjoy 25% off at the Buffet at Hyatt from Mondays to Thursdays and 20% off on Fridays to Sundays for all of July.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 15, 2026

Hula, ʻAuana soundtrack, and $1 ice cream: weekend guide for Oʻahu

Looking for ways to celebrate the weekend? Catch the Prince Lot Hula Festival, listen to the ʻAuana soundtrack, eat $1 ice cream and attend Bon Dances. Aloha State Daily shares a list of a dozen ways you can get into weekend mode this Friday, July 17, through Sunday, July, 19.

Katie HellandJuly 15, 2026

Lahaina homecoming planned; Front Street to reopen in near future

Nearly three years after deadly wildfires destroyed much of the West Maui community, 103 former residents are set to return this weekend — and the public is invited to help celebrate the community's spirit.

Stephanie SalmonsJuly 14, 2026

Kooky Rental Cars!

ASD history columnist DeSoto Brown takes us on a spin behind the wheels of the wacky, colorful rental cars that tourists loved in 1960s Hawai‘i. Open-air jeeps and dune buggies, these vehicles came from such exotic places as England, Italy, France and Toledo, Ohio. They all promised a fun time in the Islands.

DeSoto BrownJuly 14, 2026

Community Voices: Planting the seeds for progress

Two laws supported by Grassroot Institute of Hawai‘i have passed, allowing farmers to run home kitchen operations on their properties and build on-site housing for much-needed workers.

Keliʻi AkinaJuly 14, 2026

Community Voices: Empty homes tax won’t go away

Legislative attempts to pass the tax have failed, so proponents have a new idea — make an empty homes tax a charter amendment that people can vote on in the next election. The proposal is making headway, even as the draft amendment contains all the same conundrums as the failed bills.

Tom YamachikaJuly 14, 2026

Community Voices: Molokai is ready for another option

Lānaʻi Air will begin flying between Oʻahu and Molokai in September.

Philamer FelicitasJuly 14, 2026

Free soil, plant testing for Kona Low-affected farmers ends July 21

Three months of free testing offered by the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa's Agricultural Diagnostic Service Center ends soon. Tests can identify soil and plant health issues and shifts in pest populations since the storm.

ASD StaffJuly 14, 2026

Your guide to upcoming theater on Oʻahu

Ready to see a production on stage? From Hawaiʻi premieres to Shakespearean classics, there are lots of shows to catch in Honolulu, Waikīkī, and more this summer and fall.

Katie HellandJuly 14, 2026

Five players with Hawai‘i ties selected in final day of 2026 MLB Draft

The 2026 MLB Draft concluded with three selections with Island ties on Sunday.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 13, 2026

$1 ice cream flight cones at Hammond’s Gourmet Ice Cream

The Hawaiʻi Kai biz is offering limited-time specials for National Ice Cream Day this Sunday, July 19. Customers can enjoy $2 ice cream scoops, $1 flight cones and specialty flavors.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 13, 2026

And the Nā Hōkū Hanohano winners are ...

The winners of Female Vocalist of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year and Album of the Year, as well as many other Nā Hōkū Hanohano awards have been announced. These artists took home the top awards on Saturday, July 11.

Katie HellandJuly 12, 2026

Max Holloway defeats injured Conor McGregor via TKO at UFC 329

An anticlimactic main event ended in a Holloway victory 13 years in the making in Las Vegas on Saturday night.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 12, 2026

Kamaka ʻUkulele celebrates 110 years

The ʻukulele company which makes instruments played by ʻukulele virtuosos and movie stars is celebrating more than a century of business. The instruments will be featured at the International ʻUkulele Festival of Hawaiʻi, a free event that returns to the Kapiʻolani Park Bandstand, this Sunday, July 12.

Katie HellandJuly 12, 2026

Wai‘anae's Max Holloway, Pearl CIty's Kai Kamaka III good to go at UFC 329

Each UFC 329 fight was made official on Friday morning after all fighters successfully made weight.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 11, 2026

Hawaiʻi attacks on parents: What the Liliha, Hawaiʻi Kai and Waikīkī cases share

A blood-soaked man stood in the middle of a Liliha street and answered police with his father’s name. ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa on three attacks on parents in a single year — and the commandment written for ordinary homes.

Sterling HigaJuly 11, 2026

Maui-based apparel brand to debut at Made in Hawaiʻi Festival

Jared Nagura, owner of Aloha Ke Akua Clothing Co., “fell into business” during college and credits God to its success over the past decade. The faith-based company, known for designs that blend Hawaiian language and culture with biblical messages, will for the first time be at Hawaiʻi's annual celebration of locally made products come August.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 11, 2026

Monkeypod Kitchen Waikīkī has a new late-night happy hour

The late-night happy hour menu is served daily from 9 to 11 p.m. It features the same deals as the eatery’s earlier happy hour; customers can enjoy 50% off select appetizers, $17 pizzas and discounted drinks.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 10, 2026

Community Voices: The luxury tourism myth

Many voices call for Hawai‘i's tourism industry to attract fewer, wealthier customers. Hospitality industry veteran Dan Wacksman explains why Hawaiʻi can't simply replace millions of visitors with millionaires

Dan WacksmanJuly 10, 2026

Green signs bills targeting medical debt, human trafficking and more

Highlights from a busy week of bill signing.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 10, 2026

Kai Kamaka III looks to set the tone for Hawai‘i at UFC 329

The Kamehameha alumnus and Pearl City native will kick off the UFC 329 preliminary card against Luke Riley on Saturday.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 10, 2026

What are the economic impacts of 'Moana' for Hawaiʻi?

When a Disney movie has nine days of filming on Oʻahu and 280 more days of pre-production, there are economic impacts for the state. Georja Skinner, chief officer of the Creative Industries Division for the state’s Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism, shared some numbers.

Katie HellandJuly 10, 2026

Wai‘anae's Max Holloway and Conor McGregor exchange barbs during contentious UFC 329 presser

Fight week continued to heat up as Holloway and McGregor faced off for the first time at the UFC 329 press conference on Thursday evening.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 10, 2026

State energy office slams retracted UHERO solar energy report

State energy officer Mark Glick said the now-withdrawn report was unrealistic, unserious and unsupported by data.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 10, 2026

Enter for a chance to win tickets to see Disney’s live action adaptation of the animated film ‘Moana’

Aloha State Daily has partnered with Pacific Media Group to send several of you to a special screening of Disney’s live action adaptation of the animated film, “Moana,” at 4 p.m. on Saturday, July 18 at Consolidated Ward Theaters.

Kady PascualJuly 10, 2026

'Haagua' featured at Honolulu Surf Film Festival

The 15-minute film features Kaliko Kahoonei, who grew up on the Oʻahu's West Side on a paipo board. The short explores Indigenous knowledge of the ocean and surfing and will screen at the Honolulu Surf Film Festival.

Katie HellandJuly 10, 2026

Hush Hush is a new speakeasy in Pint + Jigger

The speakeasy is currently open Fridays to Sundays for cocktails. The entrance is hidden in plain sight inside Pint + Jigger. The speakeasy’s menu now features a New Orleans-style theme with drinks like Sazerac, Grasshopper, and libations with absinthe.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 10, 2026

New law increases access to colorectal cancer screenings and treatment statewide

House Bill 1969, which became a law on July 1, aims to reduce colorectal cancer — the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in Hawaiʻi — by providing $1.8 million in state funding over the next fiscal year to the uninsured for screening and follow-up tests. Aloha State Daily caught up with Rep. Cory Chun, who reintroduced policy from 2012 into this year's legislative session, as well as Mark Vasconcellos, a colorectal cancer survivor and American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network volunteer.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 10, 2026

Top Hawai‘i prospects prepare for MLB Draft decisions

Scouts view the 2026 draft as a potential down year in the Islands due to the lack of players expected to sign.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 10, 2026

Mahalo Noodle Waikīkī offers Okinawan soba

The eatery focuses on Okinawan soba, which includes a wheat-based noodle instead of buckwheat. Other menu items include tan tan Okinawan soba and traditional seasoned rice bowls.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 09, 2026

HoMA announces new director and CEO

The Honolulu Museum of Art has announced its next director and CEO, who will assume the role on Sept. 1. Learn more about the executive, who grew up in Kailua.

Katie HellandJuly 09, 2026

State AG to investigate alleged Sylvia Luke campaign finance violations

A complaint by the Campaign Spending Commission alleging 12 campaign finance violations has been referred to the state Attorney General for possible prosecution.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 09, 2026

Max Holloway, Conor McGregor take to the mic and reflect ahead of UFC 329

The two mixed martial arts stars and Saturday's headliners were the main attraction of UFC 329's media day at T-Mobile Arena on Wednesday.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 09, 2026

Anna O’Brien’s under new management

Learn what will and won't change as this Irish pub — not far from the campus of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa — soft opens under new management on Friday, July 10.

Katie HellandJuly 09, 2026

Community Voices: By Restoring Our Reefs We Restore Ourselves

When corals are ripped out, we lose more than coral — we lose shelter for reef life, habitat for fish, and part of the reef’s natural ability to take the punch out of waves before they reach our shoreline. That loss affects our food systems, livelihoods and community health, says Alika Peleholani Garcia, executive director of Kuleana Coral Restoration.

Alika Peleholani GarciaJuly 08, 2026

Pipikaula Corner: Hawai‘i's fraudulent vape ban

On Tuesday, Hawai‘i Gov. Josh Green signed into law a ban on "99.9% of disposable vapes." It's a move totally at odds with the harm reduction strategies the state uses for all other vices, argues ASD Editor in Chief A. Kam Napier. And it's in response to a non-existent crisis, in that teen smoking and vaping is the lowest it's ever been in a quarter century.

A. Kam NapierJuly 08, 2026

North Shore farm aims to expand opportunities for immigrant farmers, strengthen local food systems

Nonprofit Pacific Gateway Center has launched PGC Farms Hale‘iwa, a new 80-acre agricultural hub on land owned by Kamehameha Schools.

Stephanie SalmonsJuly 08, 2026

This Wahiawā coffee shop is tucked away behind a tattoo shop

Hideaway Coffeeshop opened in Wahiawā at the beginning of May. Business owner Steph Maldonado describes the space as a “speakeasy-like coffee shop” and features customizable drinks with housemade syrups.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 08, 2026

Hamada: Hawai‘i not to blame for losing Sony Open

We fret locally about what Hawai‘i might've done wrong to lose major golf tournaments, but ASD opinion columnist Rick Hamada says that changes within the golf industry itself made the loss inevitable.

Rick HamadaJuly 08, 2026

What 1,800 words can’t tell you about the OHA lawsuit

The disputed court filing at the center of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs’ board war runs 42 pages and costs $4.31 to download. Almost no one will ever read it. ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa on why we meet every public story halfway through — and why we have to judge anyway.

Sterling HigaJuly 08, 2026

Huaka‘i Pō at Pu‘ukoholā

It is said that Kamehameha himself helped build the Pu‘ukoholā heiau, a massive undertaking that involved a human chain 20 miles long passing stones from Pololu Valley to Puʻukoholā. Once completed and consecrated, Kamehameha's kahuna had said, the heiau would mean the successful end to Kamehameha's wars of conquest. Naturally, tales of night marchers — Huaka‘i Pō — still haunt the area.

Lopaka Kapanui and Tanya KapanuiJuly 08, 2026

Excitement for Max Holloway is 'through the roof,' says strength coach Darin Yap

Holloway's strength and conditioning coach, Darin Yap, believes his 15-pound jump to face Conor McGregor on Saturday will be a seamless one.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 08, 2026

Community Voices: SNAP disaster imminent

The good news is that we don’t have the worst error rate, and Hawaiʻi was just slightly above the national average. The bad news is that our error rate was 10.92% in 2025. Double digits mean triple penalties, and don’t expect anyone to cut us some slack when they take effect.

Tom YamachikaJuly 08, 2026

'99.9%' of vapes to be banned under new laws

A pair of new laws Gov. Josh Green signed Tuesday will strongly curtail what e-cigarette products are permitted to be sold in the state.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 08, 2026

Disney’s live action 'Moana' sails into theaters and more: Oʻahu weekend guide

Ready to make weekend plans? Catch Disney’s live action version of “Moana,” which opens in theaters on Friday, July 10. The Honolulu Surf Film Festival, the Honolulu Rainbow Film Festival, and the International ʻUkulele Festival of Hawaiʻi will also be happening this weekend on Oʻahu.

Katie HellandJuly 08, 2026

Tickets for Made in Hawai‘i Festival go on sale Aug. 1

The annual event will be held Aug. 20 to 23 at the Hawai‘i Convention Center.

Stephanie SalmonsJuly 07, 2026

Neko Koneko is a Tokyo-meets-Hawaiʻi café

The café — whose name derives from the Japanese word for “cat” — opened in October 2021, and is inspired by its owners’ love for coffee, travel and Japanese heritage. While the business is known for its 16-ounce bottled cold brews, it also offers a traditional menu with in-store drinks.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 07, 2026

Green signs new Marine Affairs office into law

New state office will govern ocean and aquatic resources and policies.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 07, 2026

New cancer clinical research center unveiled in Honolulu

The state’s first dedicated center for early phase cancer clinical trials — dubbed the Hoʻōla Early Phase Clinical Research Center — officially opened Monday at the University of Hawaiʻi Cancer Center in Kakaʻako. The new facility, which cost a total of about $19.5 million for construction and equipment, will allow local patients to receive specialized treatments closer to home.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 07, 2026

New law gives extra tax credit to film productions with local hires

Gov. Josh Green signed legislation Monday that will increase tax credits for movies and series filmed on the Islands if they include mostly local hires.

Katie HellandJuly 07, 2026

Sony Open joins the seniors’ tour — and so has Hawaiʻi

A pension check arrives in Hawaiʻi untaxed; a young family’s groceries do not. ASD columnist Sterling Higa on the golf rebrand that tells the truth about who these Islands are built for.

Sterling HigaJuly 07, 2026

Hawai‘i football sold short again in latest EA Sports release

EA Sports College Football 27 was released on Monday, the latest in an annual installment of college football video games.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 07, 2026

Budget Bites: $30 prime rib deal at Merriman’s Honolulu

This special entree is available starting at 8 p.m. for dine-in only on Sundays to Thursdays at the eatery. It features a 12-ounce, herb-crusted prime rib served with Maui green beans and garlic mashed potatoes.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 07, 2026

Liliha Bakery to open new spot in Waikīkī

This will be the brand's sixth location on O‘ahu.

Stephanie SalmonsJuly 06, 2026

Sushi Ichika has a new, affordable omakase experience

The sister restaurant of Tempura Ichika is starting a new Makai omakase on July 6. This new course starts at $90 per person, and it will only be available on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 06, 2026

Aloha Tower at 100 years old, Part 2: It seemed like a good idea at the time ...

In the early 1960s, the State of Hawai‘i invested millions in harbor upgrades that included modernizing Aloha Tower as a terminal for passenger liners. But jet planes soon replaced passengers liners, rendering the terminal obsolete. In the 1990s, those structure were torn down to create Aloha Marketplace, a shopping and dining destination that would never draw the anticipated crowds. ASD history writer DeSoto Brown brings us to the present day as Aloha Tower celebrates its centennial.

DeSoto BrownJuly 06, 2026

Community Voices: Are your trees ready for hurricane season?

As hurricane season unfolds, it's worth remembering that preparing for storms isn't only about what we store in our closets or garages. It's also about caring for the living infrastructure that surrounds us.

Daniel Dinell & Carol KwanJuly 03, 2026

CONGRESS WATCH: Schatz introduces bill requiring labels on AI content

U.S. Congress considered AI measures and other legislation last week.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 03, 2026

Naks Pan is a new salt bread business on Oʻahu

The home bakery specializes in shio pan, or salt bread, and cream pan. The Japanese bread rolls are available in a variety of flavors, while the cream pan buns are filled with custard. The biz will be popping up at the Taste of Aloha market on July 11.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 03, 2026

Ala Moana Center makes list of best shopping centers

USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards aim to rank the 10 best in several areas of travel and lifestyle. Here's where Ala Moana — and other Hawai‘i businesses — landed on several lists.

Stephanie SalmonsJuly 03, 2026

From Waipahu to Italy: Remembering Staff Sgt. Grover Kazutomi Nagaji

Born and raised in Waipahu, Nagaji joined the U.S. Army on March 25, 1943. He became a proud member of the 100th Infantry Battalion (Separate), 34th Infantry Division, and trained at Camp Shelby in Mississippi. One year later, he was deployed to Europe, where he saw action in Italy as part of the Allied campaign against German forces.

John DekhaneJuly 03, 2026

Community Voices: Now you see it, now you don’t

There’s no magic involved here, only taxes. Taxes you can see, and taxes you can’t. Tax Foundation of Hawaiʻi revisits the barrel tax.

Tom YamachikaJuly 03, 2026

Hawai‘i Athletics rings in new era

On Wednesday, UH officially became a full-time member of the Mountain West Conference after 14 years in the Big West. The athletic department's new TV rights deal kicked in that same day.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 03, 2026

David Lazar sworn in as new HPD chief

Lazar, former assistant chief for the San Francisco Police Department, is HPD's 13th chief, and the first to be hired from outside the department in 90 years.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 03, 2026

Olivet Baptist Church on Beretania Street turns 100

Senior Pastor Jamie McElrath shares about the church’s history in Honolulu and his hope for the congregation’s future: “A healthy body will grow.” Olivet Baptist will be celebrating this milestone with events open to the community over the weekend.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 03, 2026

Sharing the Spirit of America heads to all 50 states

The birth of the United States started with the Declaration of Independence. Now, 250 years later, people will read the historic document in all 50 states, five territories and the Minor Outlying Islands, as well as across the world, through this initiative with Hawaiʻi America250.

Katie HellandJuly 03, 2026

Center for Family Business & Entrepreneurs helps businesses plan for growth, transition

The new center was launched earlier this year by Bank of Hawai‘i, created for family-owned and closely-held businesses. CFBE Director Agatha Viernes-LeGros told Aloha State Daily that the center aims to provide education, advice and hands-on execution of planning services to clients in a confidential manner.

Stephanie SalmonsJuly 03, 2026

Taste of Aloha is expanding to include a second market location

Taste of Aloha is currently located at Waterfront Plaza every second Saturday of the month. The market is expanding to include a second location; it will be at NEX on from 4 to 8 p.m. on July 31.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 02, 2026

Feast by Jon Matsubara has a new local-style breakfast

The Mānoa eatery — known for its lobster rolls — is offering breakfast from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursdays to Sundays. Customers can look forward to dishes like lobster omelets, salmon chazuke, "churro” French toast, kalua pig loco moco and more.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 02, 2026

On the Fourth, read the Declaration

If you really want to understand why we're celebrating Independence Day, go back to the source and read the Declaration of Independence, says ASD political historian Perry Arrasmith. It's only one of the most important documents in history!

Perry ArrasmithJuly 02, 2026

Supreme Court: 'I'm sorry' doesn't mean you're guilty

Honolulu man's reflexive apology to a police officer in 2019 shouldn't have been admissible in court, the Hawai‘i Supreme Court ruled.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 02, 2026

Food and fireworks: Your guide to the weekend on Oʻahu

From a patriotic sing-along to a new happy hour, there are lots of events happening on Oʻahu this weekend. Get your calendar ready to make plans for this weekend!

Katie HellandJuly 02, 2026

Local high school students learn to cook under Chef Thomas Wong

As part of a scholarship-supported summer culinary cohort at Kapi‘olani Community College’s Culinary Institute of the Pacific, Wong — who is from Oʻahu and is now based in California as a professor at Culinary Institute of America at Greystone — created this custom curriculum to challenge teens in an intensive five days of training. Teamwork, timeliness, organization and having a good attitude were among the lessons learned by students.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJuly 02, 2026

Masala Māya is a new concept featuring Indian dishes to-go

Chef Vikram Garg’s new to-go concept features authentic Indian flavors, including dishes like chicken curry, pork vindaloo, Goan shrimp curry and lamb rogan josh. Masala Māya is open for online ordering from Wednesdays to Sundays; customers can pick up their orders at Umi by Vikram Garg in Waikīkī or opt for delivery.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 02, 2026

Sony Open rebrands as PGA Tour Champions event

The PGA Tour Champions is reserved for professional men's golfers 50 and over. The Sony Open previously served as a PGA Tour event from 1965 to 2026.

Christian ShimabukuJuly 01, 2026

Zippy's Kāhala location to reopen

The restaurant will reopen next week, following four months of renovations.

Stephanie SalmonsJuly 01, 2026

The Pig & The Lady launches its summer menu

Customers can enjoy dishes featuring a variety of seasonal ingredients. Highlights include Kona kanpachi crudo, local Oʻahu farm vegetables with hummus, swordfish filet with curried corn rice, squid ink linguine and the return of the eatery’s popular mango sorbet.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJuly 01, 2026

Community Voices: Commercial fishing is not a cultural practice

Rather than framing ocean protection as a burden, we should instead ask why Pacific Island peoples, and our protected and sacred oceans, are forced to bear the unfair burden of industrial fishing, write two members of the Papahānaumokuākea Native Hawaiian Cultural Working Group.

Hau‘oli Lorenzo-Elarco and Kenika Lorenzo-ElarcoJuly 01, 2026

Hamada: Why I'm happily celebrating the Fourth of July

ASD opinion columnist Rick Hamada remembers firsthand the tumultuous year of 1968 — and how Americans nevertheless united to celebrate the Fourth of July. He's keeping that spirit alive this year, even if some people seem determined to sit the party out.

Rick HamadaJuly 01, 2026

Moanalua’s Haunting History

If an old Hawaiian woman asks you to cut a cord for her in Moanalua Valley, be very, very careful what you do next. That's just once of the eerie tales of this part of O‘ahu where many battles have raged, from the invasion of Kahekili from Maui to the dispute over the route of H3.

Lopaka Kapanui and Tanya KapanuiJuly 01, 2026

Aloha Tower at 100 years old: Part 1

A hundred years ago, Aloha Tower was built as an intentional landmark for the bustling harbor where all visitors to O‘ahu arrived, and that plan worked, as it quickly became synonymous with Hawai‘i itself. In part one of our look back at the tower's history, ASD history columnist DeSoto Brown takes us from the creation of the tower to just after WWII.

DeSoto BrownJuly 01, 2026

25 things to do on Oʻahu to celebrate the semiquincentennial

Looking for ways to celebrate 250 years of the U.S. being a nation? Aloha State Daily has compiled a list of events — including firework shows — happening for the semiquincentennial. From ʻEwa Beach to Waimānalo, here are some of the events happening across the Island this weekend.

Katie HellandJuly 01, 2026

Pilot program aims to support North Shore businesses affected by Kona Low storms

Hawaiian Council, in partnership with the Hawai‘i Visitors & Convention Bureau, E Noa Tours and Hawai‘i Tourism Authority, this week launched North Shore Huaka‘i, connecting visitors and kama‘āina to businesses in Hale‘iwa and Waialua.

Stephanie SalmonsJuly 01, 2026

How to celebrate July 4 on Kauaʻi, Maui and Hawaiʻi Island

Looking for ways to celebrate the semiquincentennial of the U.S. becoming a nation this long week weekend? Aloha State Daily has you covered. From poolside barbecues to a chili cook-off, which will be judged by Lahaina firefighters, to a helicopter flower drop at the Flowerworks Festival, there are lots of events happening across the Neighbor Islands.

Katie HellandJuly 01, 2026

Blangiardi warns of 'unprecedented' fireworks enforcement amid wildfire prevention campaign

City, state and federal agencies launched the 2026 Wildfire LOOKOUT! campaign Tuesday with advice and warnings about what to do and not do to avoid wildfires.

Michael BrestovanskyJuly 01, 2026

Community Voices: When licensing goes too far

Highlights from Grassroot’s annual legislative wrap-up visits, including how a hair braider in Hawaiʻi got their license to open a small business.

Keliʻi AkinaJune 30, 2026

Roosevelt High School unveils brand new gymnasium

The $35 million project was part of a master plan to have the school's facilities up to DOE standards.

Christian ShimabukuJune 30, 2026

Hawaiian Airlines’ new main cabin menu launches July 1

For in-flight meals on domestic flights between Hawaiʻi and the Mainland, guests can pre-order from a menu curated by Maui-based chef Sheldon Simeon. The menu features elevated takes on local favorites and comfort foods, and features dishes like corned beef hash and eggs, banana pancakes, teriyaki cheeseburgers, crispy mochiko chicken and garlic noodles, and more.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 30, 2026

Remembering Hawai‘i's bicentennial license plates

For the first time in 1976, Hawai‘i license plates transformed into something beyond just letters and numbers on a colored background. They became the state's first graphic plates, designed to be attractive and convey their times. Across the country, these bicentennial plates paved the way for license plates with artistic flair.

A. Kam NapierJune 30, 2026

Arancino on Beachwalk has a new happy hour

The popular Italian restaurant’s new happy hour menu is exclusive to this location. It launches July 1 and will be available daily from 4 to 5 p.m. Customers can enjoy dishes like gnocchi with gorgonzola, lobster bisque, mortadella paninis and more.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 30, 2026

After over a decade in the NFL, Marcus Mariota continues to share his gift

On Monday, Mariota's Motiv8 Foundation held its 10th annual golf tournament, a key fundraiser for the organization's mission in supporting local communities, underserved youth and homeless populations, among other initiatives.

Christian ShimabukuJune 30, 2026

No contested case for tow woes at Ala Wai

Despite complaints over tow-happy parking enforcement at Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor, a contested case hearing will not be going forward.

Michael BrestovanskyJune 30, 2026

Construction Industry of Maui awards scholarships to three isle students

The CIM Bob Poulson Scholarship encourages local students to pursue a degree in the construction and design industry — away from Maui — then bring their knowledge and skills back to the Valley Isle. Three students each received a $20,000 scholarship this year and shared with Aloha State Daily their plans after college.

Stephanie SalmonsJune 30, 2026

ʻDivine disruption’ at heart of HoMA exhibit

This new exhibit by Tsherin Sherpa at the Honolulu Museum of Art features deities in unconventional poses and places. It tackles tough issues, such as displacement and immigration, and will be on display through January 2027.

Katie HellandJune 30, 2026

Community Voices: Why homeownership matters for Hawaiʻi's future

As affordability challenges continue to shape the housing conversation, expanding access to education, resources and pathways to ownership remains critical for local residents — and the Realtors who represent them.

Suzanne YoungJune 30, 2026

This eatery launched a $6 happy hour

Piko Kitchen + Bar in Waikīkī updated its pau hana menu to include more dishes for $6 each. Its pau hana deal is available daily from 2 to 6 p.m. Customers can enjoy options like hot honey chicken sandos and fish katsu sandos, along with $6 beers and discounted cocktails.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 30, 2026

America’s religious founding: Revival came before the Republic

A child earns a gold star this spring for writing that the founders wanted church and state kept apart. ASD columnist Sterling Higa on the founding we no longer teach — and the revival that built it.

Sterling HigaJune 29, 2026

Hawaiʻi says ‘No can’ to Great American State Fair in Washington, D.C.

Hawaiʻi government officials will not be present at the Great American State Fair, put on by Freedom 250 now through July 10, along with at least 10 mostly Democratic-led states citing cost, staffing and for some, political reasons. Gov. Josh Green says no funds were earmarked for the fair by the state or Congress and instead, has thrown support behind local celebrations.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 29, 2026

Hawai‘i at 250

Hawai‘i's celebrations for the 250th anniversary of America's independence seem muted compared to those for the Bicentennial in 1976. That's a shame, argues ASD columnist Perry Arrasmith. Can't we set aside our complaints for even one day to celebrate?

Perry ArrasmithJune 29, 2026

Kaʻamilo Sweets is a new bake stand in ‘Aiea

Inspired by owner Tiana Pilialoha’s love for baking, the business is usually open on Wednesdays and Fridays, and sells treats like brownies, chocolate chip cookies and banana bread.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 29, 2026

Family, friends continue to seek justice for Amber Jackson 16 years after Kaua‘i murder

For 16 years, the murder of Amber Jackson on Kauaʻi has gone unsolved, but in December 2025, the Kaua‘i Police Department issued an arrest warrant for Gregory Glaser, wanted for second degree murder in connection with the case. ASD crime writer Christina O'Connor spoke with Amber Jackson's family and friends to learn about Jackson's life and their tireless pursuit of justice for her.

Christina O'ConnorJune 29, 2026

WWE heads to Hawai‘i in search of next star

The world's leading professional wrestling promotion will be in search of new talent from the Islands this weekend at the Hi Fit Expo.

Christian ShimabukuJune 27, 2026

Music video filmed at Hanalei Bay gets world premiere in Hollywood

Actress turned filmmaker Carolina Espiro created a music video for four-time Grammy Award winner Kalani Peʻa’s song “Hanalei I Ka Pilimoe.” Shot entirely by moonlight at Hanalei Bay, its world premiere debuted on Friday, June 26, at Dances with Films Festival in Hollywood, California.

Katie HellandJune 27, 2026

Controversial Hale‘iwa housing project back on the table

Despite opposition, the 150-unit Hale‘iwa housing project returned to a County Council committee this week.

Michael BrestovanskyJune 27, 2026

Green signs $20 billion budget bill, plans to veto 4 others

Gov. Josh Green signed a supplemental budget bill Friday and unveiled his list of four measures he intends to kill.

Michael BrestovanskyJune 27, 2026

RIMPAC 2026: Hawaiʻi, China, and the Question Underneath

The children have soccer practice while, a few miles offshore, 31 nations rehearse a war. ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa on what Hawaiʻi trusts to keep it safe.

Sterling HigaJune 26, 2026

David Earles to step down from Junior Achievement of Hawai‘i

Earles, who has called the Islands home for nearly 30 years serving in various leadership roles across the nonprofit sector, plans to move to Nevada with his family after more than four years at the helm of JAH. The organization, which provides financial literacy and entrepreneurship programs to K-12 students statewide, is looking to hire its next president and CEO. The deadline to apply is Friday, July 3.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 26, 2026

Kumu Hula Kalani Viloria heads hālau in California

Since 2023, Kumu Hula Kalani Viloria and wife Hiwa Gacutan-Viloria have operated Kapiliwaiokeao, a hālau in Southern California that offers traditional and contemporary hula classes to haumāna (students) ages 3 and older. Viloria shares more about his upbringing in dance and the Hawaiian culture, the hālau’s evolution and recent hōʻike, future goals, and more.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 26, 2026

Fusion Cafe has a limited-time burger and beer deal

The cafe — located next to Dada Spa and Salon in Ala Moana Hotel by Mantra — is offering a $20 burger and beer deal during happy hour, which is daily from 3 to 5 p.m.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 26, 2026

Looking to buy a home in Hawai‘i? Here's what you should know.

Aloha State Daily talks with Aaron Tangonan, president of the Honolulu Board of Realtors, to learn more about the home-buying process, how feasible it is to become a homeowner, what opportunities are available and more.

Stephanie SalmonsJune 26, 2026

New mural unveiling on Kauaʻi this Saturday

The Garden Island has new art, which will be unveiled to the public this weekend. The project is a collaboration between Common Ground Kauaʻi, a 63-acre regenerative farm, and Capitol Modern. The project involves 11 artists, including many who call Kauaʻi home.

Katie HellandJune 26, 2026

Warriors Don't Bully returns for sequel at Hi Fit Expo

Two anti-bullying and self-defense sessions will be held at the Hi Fit Expo at the Blaisdell Exhibition Hall this weekend.

Christian ShimabukuJune 26, 2026

Kaua‘i Coffee Co. secures 15-year lease

The brand's parent company, Massimo Zanetti Beverage USA, negotiated a new 15-year lease for the 3,100-acre farm on which it has been operating with property owner Brue Baukol Capital Partners. Kaua‘i Mayor Derek Kawakami shares what this means for the Garden Isle community.

Stephanie SalmonsJune 26, 2026

U.S. Supreme Court stakes Hawai‘i's 'vampire' gun law

A 2023 law prohibiting bringing concealed firearms onto private property without the owner's explicit consent has been deemed unconstitutional.

Michael BrestovanskyJune 26, 2026

BirdyGo! offers fried chicken sandwiches in Downtown Honolulu

The new concept from the Bar Leather Apron and MĀZE is located downstairs from Bar Leather Apron in Topa Financial Center. The business is in its soft opening and features fried chicken sandwiches, chicken tenders, seasoned fries and cauliflower nuggets.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 26, 2026

Inside Hunter Hayes’ new album: ʻEvergreenʻ

The singer and songwriter spoke with Aloha State Daily about his new music and upcoming performances at the Blue Note Hawaiʻi in Waikīkī, ahead of the start of a tour to promote his new album. Catch him in Honolulu on Sunday, June 28, and Tuesday, June 30.

Katie HellandJune 26, 2026

What's new at Ala Moana Center

The shopping center has welcomed a number of new tenants with more coming soon.

Stephanie SalmonsJune 25, 2026

GoFundMe warns new Hawaiʻi law will impact nonprofits

Hawaiʻi's Act 205, which goes into effect July 1, requires written consent from nonprofits using GoFundMe, among other online charitable fundraising platforms, to keep its accounts active online and able to receive donations. GoFundMe VP Amanda Brown Lierman shares what local organizations need to know about the company’s process.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 25, 2026

Pipikaula Corner: Hawai‘i’s crappy priorities

The state just announced a process for Hawai‘i’s businesses and nonprofits to apply for funding out of the new $120-million “green fee” fund. ASD editor in chief A. Kam Napier opines that we could be aiming all of that money at a single very significant environmental problem we made for ourselves right here in the Islands. Instead, it will get diluted.

A. Kam NapierJune 25, 2026

Haveli Da Tandoor food truck serves authentic North Indian flavors

The food truck features Punjabi cuisine, including tandoori chicken, wagyu beef samosas and tandoori lamb lollipops. Customers can find the truck at events across Oʻahu, including Ono Grindz & Makeke at Wai Kai, What the Truck?! and at the Village Night Market.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 25, 2026

And the Wailuku Film Festival winners are...

It’s a wrap for the inaugural Wailuku Film Festival. Brian Kohne, the festival's director and the Maui film commissioner, reflected on the event and how it impacted local businesses. Read more to learn the festival’s winners.

Katie HellandJune 25, 2026

Q&A: New Hawai‘i women's volleyball head coach Joshua Walker hits the ground running

Walker, a former UH men's volleyball player and assistant coach, returns to his alma mater after four seasons on Baylor's staff.

Christian ShimabukuJune 25, 2026

DOJ awards $17 million to over 600 Red Hill plaintiffs

Military family members impacted by the Red Hill water contamination receive settlements, but the case continues as thousands more plaintiffs remain.

Michael BrestovanskyJune 25, 2026

Hamada: Let me be a warning to you

ASD columnist Rick Hamada gets personal with some health news, in hopes that you'll be inspired to take better care of yourself.

Rick HamadaJune 25, 2026

UBAE opens second location in Pearlridge Center

The business — which stands for “ube before anything else” — just opened in ‘Aiea. Its Pearlridge Center store has several exclusive treats, including ube slushies and ubaegato, or soft serve topped with a shot of hot espresso.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 25, 2026

Mid-Pacific Institute looks for next leader

The private school in Mānoa Valley has launched its search for president. The deadline to apply is Sept. 4, with the school hopeful to announce its new president on July 1, 2027. Outgoing president Paul Turnbull will head to North Carolina for a new role next summer.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 24, 2026

New from Maui Gold Pineapple Co.: Maui Pineapple Farm

The new brand launched this week, offering value-added products made from Maui Gold pineapples.

Stephanie SalmonsJune 24, 2026

Wehiwehi artists perform at Bishop Museum, Shangri La

Six Kānaka Maoli artists shared their work with the community at the Wehiwehi artist showcase on June 19 at Bishop Museum. This week, artists from the Wehiwehi residency program will also perform at Shangri La before an evening crowd of up to 200 people at the first event of its kind for the museum and cultural center, after an expanded conditional use permit went into effect this year.

Katie HellandJune 24, 2026

Hau Tree launches a refreshed brunch menu

Executive chef Chaz Wilmore and chef de cuisine Denecio Urias recently revamped The Kaimana Beach Hotel restaurant’s brunch menu. Diners can look forward to dishes like shakshuka and naan, an updated avocado toast, fish sandwich and more.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 24, 2026

Community Voices: The art of the tax deal

We, the people, have an interest in the deals that our government is making. Especially if tax money, or government resources paid for by tax money, is part of the deal.

Tom YamachikaJune 24, 2026

Northern California club brings artistic swimming to Hawai‘i

Walnut Creek Aquanuts, an artistic swimming club from Northern California, recently held an international event at the Duke Kahanamoku Aquatic Complex.

Christian ShimabukuJune 24, 2026

City loan program for first-time homebuyers nears passage

A Honolulu City Council committee discussed a long-gestating program that would allow prospective homebuyers to apply for a loan from the city to help cover a down payment on a home.

Michael BrestovanskyJune 24, 2026

Legends and Spirits of Polihale

At the end of an unpaved, 5-mile road on Kaua‘i's west side is Polihale Beach. It is many things — a treasured local hangout, a visitor attraction that's gaining popularity, and, in ancient Hawaiian tradition, it is a jumping-off place for souls seeking the afterlife. Eerie stories abound about it.

Lopaka Kapanui and Tanya KapanuiJune 24, 2026

Turtle Bay Resort vs. a bee: Why the rules keep choosing luxury

An endangered bee could stall a Turtle Bay resort, writes ASD columnist Sterling Higa. A few miles down the coast, homes that start at $5.9 million are going up untouched.

Sterling HigaJune 24, 2026

Ocean House by Roy Yamaguchi is now open on Kauaʻi

The new eatery, which celebrated its grand opening on June 22, is located at Outrigger Kauaʻi Beach Resort & Spa in Līhu‘e. The restaurant is currently open for breakfast and dinner and features a locally sourced menu that highlights Kauaʻi’s farms and fishing communities.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 24, 2026

Haleiwa Joe’s wins 2026 Kauaʻi Poke Fest

The sixth annual Kauaʻi Poke Fest took place on June 20 at Koloa Landing Resort. Poke entries from more than 20 competing teams were judged by a panel of celebrity chefs. The event featured poke tastings, live hula, and a poke demonstration by chefs Sam Choy and Emeril Lagasse.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 24, 2026

Maui-based clothing shop now open at Kāhala Mall

Waiwaolani, a Native Hawaiian-owned alohawear business featuring prints of Hawaiʻi’s native species, has expanded to Oʻahu with the opening of its first retail store on the island.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 23, 2026

Festivals, a hui hou to Kam Bowl, and cinema: What to do on O’ahu this weekend

Ready to make plans for the weekend? Aloha State Daily can help. From saying a hui hou to Kam Bowl Restaurant, which closes Sunday, to checking out the Pacific Rim Festival or Hawai’i Beer Fest, there are lots of events happening on O’ahu this weekend. Looking to stay cool inside? Sign up for the Hawai’i State Public Library’s Summer Reading Challenge.

Katie HellandJune 23, 2026

Red Lobster closes Waikīkī location

The restaurant permanently closed on June 21, a company spokesperson confirmed.

Stephanie SalmonsJune 23, 2026

Community Voices: Grassroot Institute of Hawaiʻi turns 25, same year U.S. turns 250

A personal invite to Grassroot Institute of Hawaiʻi's 25th Anniversary Gala on Sept. 4. The theme of the evening is "The Freedom to Thrive," and will bring together Grassroot’s friends from around the Islands and the country to enjoy a meal, open bar, entertainment and more.

Keliʻi AkinaJune 23, 2026

Brug Bakery is celebrating its 13th anniversary with $3 pastries

The Japanese-style bakery’s popular annual pastry sale is back on Friday, July 3, at all six Brug locations. All pastries will be $3 each on a first-come, first-served basis; limit 12 pastries per customer. Six winners will also win a $130 Brug gift card.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 23, 2026

From Lāʻie to The League: Kahuku's Tolu Smith represents the Red Raiders along NBA journey

In 2025, Smith became just the second player who graduated from a high school in the Islands to appear in an NBA game, joining Hilo's Red Rocha, who debuted in the NBA in 1950.

Christian ShimabukuJune 23, 2026

Lawsuit calls for preliminary suspension of Act 11

A follow-up to the Grassroot Institute of Hawai‘i's lawsuit against the state over the new anti-corporate-spending bill urges the courts to prevent the enforcement of the law as the suit progresses.

Michael BrestovanskyJune 23, 2026

Hawaiʻi showcased at Smithsonian exhibit

In July, the U.S. will celebrate the 250th anniversary of its existence as a nation. In honor of the event, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History has launched an exhibit that includes items from all 50 states, including its youngest one: Hawaiʻi.

Katie HellandJune 23, 2026

Amy Miller reflects on five years at Hawaiʻi Foodbank

The nonprofit's president and CEO shares more about the operations and ongoing partnerships at the food bank with warehouses, staff and support on both Oʻahu and Kauaʻi. Her top priority is to expand the organization’s mission of nourishing ʻohana and ending hunger.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 23, 2026

James Campbell Co. acquires West O‘ahu apartment complex

Built in 2020, The Element offers 318 rental apartments, 20% of which are reserved for households earning no more than 80% of the area median income.

Stephanie SalmonsJune 23, 2026

Supreme Dumplings is now open in Ala Moana Center

The business, which originated in Washington, specializes in handmade xiao long bao, or soup dumplings. Dumplings are folded by hand and are steamed fresh to order; customers can choose from fillings like pork, wagyu beef, truffle and chicken and more. Customers can currently make reservations via Yelp.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 23, 2026

Community Voices: Legislative outcomes underscore the need for continued advocacy

Only one of the six OHA package bills introduced to directly benefit the Native Hawaiian community was ultimately transmitted to the governor for signature. Here's a rundown of the victories and losses from the 2026 legislative session, per the organization that aims to protect Native Hawaiian rights.

Leināʻala LeyJune 22, 2026

A hui hou, Kalihi's Kam Bowl Restaurant

The Kalihi-based restaurant is closing this Sunday, June 28, at 3 p.m. It’s reopening on July 1 at 10:30 a.m. under new management and a new name — Aliʻi Diner. Kam Bowl Pearl City is set to open in mid-July at Times Square Shopping Center.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 22, 2026

Free meals fuel keiki for the summer

Aloha State Daily visited Salt Lake Elementary School’s summer program during lunch time, where about 120 Kindergarten through 6th grade students enjoyed a ready-to-eat meal with milk, some even going back for seconds. The school serves as one of 20 meal sites across Oʻahu and Kauaʻi through the Hawaiʻi Foodbank’s SUN Meals program, which partners with the state DOE’s Hawaiʻi Child Nutrition Programs, Hawaiʻi Children’s Action Network, and more.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 20, 2026

Q&A: Wendell Look reflects on his ‘Iolani career

Look is retiring as the school's athletic director and head football coach on June 30 after spending over four decades at the school.

Christian ShimabukuJune 20, 2026

Two lawsuits against state retirement system go to Supreme Court

Two retirees have sued the state over disability benefits, in separate cases now going to the state's highest court.

Michael BrestovanskyJune 20, 2026

Why Hawaiʻi locks up the honey

The honey is locked up and cameras watch the lot. ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa on what Hawaiʻi bought when it stopped paying for justice.

Sterling HigaJune 20, 2026

Oʻahu-based artist drops debut full-length album

8RO8 talks about his debut full-length album, “Hammajang,” which releases this month. The singer and songwriter, who grew up in Mākaha, shares behind-the-scenes moments from capturing a recent music video, which was filmed in a surprising spot: along the Ala Wai Canal.

Katie HellandJune 20, 2026

Pipikaula Corner: Hawai‘i dodged a library bullet

Hawai‘i tried very hard to be the home of Barack Obama's presidential library. Now the thing exists in Chicago, open to the public, over budget and overwrought. ASD Editor in Chief A. Kam Napier recaps Hawai‘i's doomed quest to secure this building and gets into what the architecture of the finished project tells us.

A. Kam NapierJune 19, 2026

Hala Tree Café is opening in Waikīkī

The business closed its original Kaʻaʻawa store and is soft opening today in Waikīkī. It’s known for serving 100% Kona coffee, and this new location also features an in-house bakery. Hala Tree Café’s grand opening will be on July 1.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 19, 2026

Governor designates state orchestra for Hawaiʻi

Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra has a new title, which comes with statewide recognition. Amy Iwano, president and CEO of the nonprofit, shares what this means for the organization. Aloha State Daily takes a closer look at the symphony's finances over recent years.

Katie HellandJune 19, 2026

Hawai‘i baseball set to reshuffle coaching staff

The Rainbow Warriors will need a new pitching and hitting coach after recent departures.

Christian ShimabukuJune 19, 2026

Boys and Girls Club of Hawaiʻi celebrates 50 years of legacy

The nonprofit, which includes several after-school clubs and centers across Oʻahu and Kauaʻi, is celebrating 50 years of caring for youth. Aloha State Daily caught up with president and CEO Paddy Kauhane to learn more about its programming and plans for expansion over the next 50 years.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 19, 2026

Wahiawā Dam in state hands

The State Agribusiness Development Corp. signed off Thursday on a transfer agreement to take over ownership of the Wahiawā Dam and other related parcels.

Michael BrestovanskyJune 19, 2026

New laws coming in second half of 2026

Several new laws are set to take effect beginning July 1. Here are some highlights.

Michael BrestovanskyJune 19, 2026

Taormina Sicilian Cuisine launches its summer happy hour

The eatery, known for its authentic Sicilian cuisine, is launching its limited-time summer happy hour on June 19. Happy hour is from 4 to 5:30 p.m. daily, and features discounted drinks and pūpū — including 50% off the restaurant’s popular truffle carbonara.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 18, 2026

Beyond Tax Relief: Delivering Real Housing Solutions for Hawaiʻi

While tax relief puts vital funds back into the pockets of working families, the state cannot stem the tide of out-migration without taking aggressive action on housing.

Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz, Sen. Sharon Moriwaki & and Sen. Troy HashimotoJune 18, 2026

Aloha State Daily joins 94.7 KUMU on new segment, 'Local Flavor Fridays'

Start your Friday off by listening to 94.7 KUMU’s newest segment, "Local Flavor Fridays," featuring ASD’s Food & Dining reporter Kelli Shiroma Braiotta.

Kady PascualJune 18, 2026

Kamaʻāina can enjoy a 20% dining discount at The Kāhala Hotel & Resort

To kick off the summer, The Kāhala Hotel & Resort is offering a 20% kamaʻāina discount at Plumeria Beach House and Seaside Grill. The discount can be applied to Plumeria Beach House’s a la carte and buffet menus.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 18, 2026

Rainbow Tower renovations complete at Hilton Hawaiian Village

The resort says the iconic tower has been "reimagined with refreshed guest rooms, locally inspired design and curated artwork that celebrates the Islands' rich culture."

Stephanie SalmonsJune 18, 2026

‘Iolani's Judah Ota earns invite to 2026 MLB Draft Combine

Ota, a senior outfielder, will play collegiately at the University of Arkansas if he chooses not to go pro this summer.

Christian ShimabukuJune 18, 2026

Coral and snails star in 'Carnival of the Nearly Extinct Animals'

Musicians, dancers and puppeteers will take the stage in September to share a world premier performance of “Carnival of the Nearly Extinct Animals,” which tells the story of endangered creatures around the globe. Featured in the performance are several species that call Hawaiʻi home, including sea turtles, snails and coral.

Katie HellandJune 18, 2026

Bicentennial of Catholicism in Hawai’i: Cathedral restoration, community events planned through 2027

Wednesday marked the kick-off of celebrations honoring the first Catholic missionaries who arrived in the Islands in 1827 and will culminate in a grand bicentennial convocation on July 7–9, 2027. Catholic leaders in Hawaiʻi unveil their planned events and invite the community to join in jubilee! Also, learn more about the fundraising efforts to complete the restoration of the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Downtown Honolulu.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 18, 2026

Linaka’s Catering offers twisted potatoes

The biz is known for its Puerto Rican and Hawaiian food, but the vendor started selling twisted potatoes — or spiral-shaped potatoes — earlier this year. So far, the business’s Ovah Load potato — topped with a secret sauce, sour cream, cheese and bacon bits — has been the most popular one.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 18, 2026

CONGRESS WATCH: Flood control, fire control

U.S. Senate introduces, passes measures to improve flood and wildfire mitigation on federal lands.

Michael BrestovanskyJune 18, 2026

The saga of the fountains

The fountain we all know and love near the Diamond Head end of Kapi‘iolani Park is not the first fountain in the area, nor is it in the original location of the first fountain. ASD history columnist DeSoto Brown takes us through the fountain's story, all the way back to its original source — Imperial Japan.

DeSoto BrownJune 18, 2026

Noise violation fines to increase under Maui County bill

Maui County Council will discuss proposal to sharply increase fines for noise violations

Michael BrestovanskyJune 17, 2026

Can Kauaʻi feed itself? Why food independence won't work

Food independence is a luxury belief, says ASD columnist Sterling Higa, and it is most affordable to those who have never gone hungry.

Sterling HigaJune 17, 2026

Vote for Hawai‘i's best resort, lū‘au and more

Hawai‘i is the focus of these best-of lists in the USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards.

Stephanie SalmonsJune 17, 2026

Mercado de la Raza opens second location in Waipahu

This Latin American market is celebrating the grand opening of its second store this Saturday, June 20, in Waipio’s Koa Ridge. The block party will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This second location is bigger than the business’s original store on South Beretania Street.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 17, 2026

Community Voices: 'Finding landfills is never easy'

Counties face growing landfill challenges. “It’s just regular language, ʻthrow it away,’” said Allison Fraley, Solid Waste Division chief, County of Kauaʻi. “There is no ʻaway’ here on the island.”

Donalyn Dela CruzJune 17, 2026

The Choking Ghost at OCCC

As if prison wasn't scary enough, prisoners and guards alike at O‘ahu Community Correctional Center have many tales of a choking ghost stalking the facility, as well as other apparitions.

Lopaka Kapanui and Tanya KapanuiJune 17, 2026

Hamada: Commemorating Honouliuli

Events coming up this weekend recognize the 80th anniversary of the closing of the Honouliuli Internment Camp, where up to 1,800 Japanese and Japanese Americans were detained during World War II. ASD opinion columnist Rick Hamada gives an overview of the history of the site, and the steps taken in the years after to attempt to right that wrong.

Rick HamadaJune 17, 2026

UPDATED: Hawai‘i Supreme Court declines to rule on 2024 election question

A petition urged Supreme Court to require an investigation into the 2024 election before 2026 election is certified.

Michael BrestovanskyJune 17, 2026

Hawai‘i star pitcher Isaiah Magdaleno to enter NCAA transfer portal

Magdaleno, a junior, is also eligible for the 2026 MLB Draft, which begins on July 11.

Christian ShimabukuJune 17, 2026

Juneteenth, Father’s Day, and more: what to do on Oʻahu this weekend

Ready to make plans for Juneteenth and Father’s Day? From live music at a botanical garden to free entry at a local museum and a movie screening that stars an actor who calls Kakaʻako home, there are lots of events happening on Oʻahu this weekend. Make your plans now for Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Katie HellandJune 17, 2026

Tickets still on sale for Goodwill Goes Glam!

Sip, shop and watch a fashion show produced by Valerie Joseph at the 15th annual Goodwill Goes Glam! — Goodwill Hawaiʻi’s signature fundraiser set for July 16 to 18 at the Blaisdell Exhibition Hall. All proceeds stay in the Islands to help bolster the nonprofit’s workforce development programs.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 17, 2026

Waimānalo Country Farms is open for its summer season

The farm’s sunflower fields usually open during mid-May, but this season started later due to the Kona Low storms in March. Waimānalo Country Farms will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. until the beginning of July.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 17, 2026

Chef Chai is featuring a prime rib special

The Kakaʻako eatery’s prime rib special ran from June 10 to 14, and it was so popular that it’s extended. Customers can take advantage of the four-course meal — which features prime rib as the entrée — from June 17 to 19. A prime rib carving station will also be added to the restaurant’s all-you-can-eat Father’s Day weekend buffet (June 20 and 21).

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 17, 2026

Kouign Amann Day is coming June 20

Kona Coffee Purveyors and b. Patisserie are offering boba-inspired Kouign Amann flavors on this day only from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. The specialty flavors include ube cream, black sesame coffee, brown sugar milk tea, peach oolong and more. Preorders are available.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 16, 2026

Community Voices: Defending the First Amendment

New law, known as Act 11, will prohibit groups you might normally think of as representing you from saying anything about candidates for public office, ballot measures or political parties. Learn more about the lawsuit filed by Grassroot Institute of Hawaiʻi.

Keliʻi AkinaJune 16, 2026

Mana Up saw record applicants for Cohort 11

There were 258 applicants for the business accelerator's newest cohort — 11 were selected from across the Islands. Aloha State Daily caught up with Mana Up co-founder Meli James to learn more about Mana Up's work, impact and entrepreneurship in Hawai‘i.

Stephanie SalmonsJune 16, 2026

Letter to the Editor: 2019 newspaper clipping confirms pronunciation of Molokai

An ASD reader writes in to say mahalo and share the newspaper clipping she keeps in her own Mary Pukui Hawaiian Dictionary.

Letters to the EditorJune 16, 2026

UPDATE: Hawaiʻi contestant gets golden buzzer on ʻAmerica’s Got Talent’

This Army sergeant got his musical break when he recorded himself singing in a car. Now, Oʻahu resident Isaac Atkins is reflecting on the “America’s Got Talent” auditions that recently took him to California.

Katie HellandJune 16, 2026

Are elephants people? State Supreme Court to weigh in

Two Honolulu Zoo elephants, Mari and Vaigai, are at the center of a Supreme Court case about the rights of non-human animals.

Michael BrestovanskyJune 16, 2026

Community Voices: Medicaid Fraud Control

Hawaiʻi's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit was recently called a “complete disgrace" by Vice President J.D. Vance and was decertified. In response, Gov. Josh Green announced that he would create an “independent Medicaid Fraud Strike Force” whose mission is "to help identify waste, fraud and abuse, recommend corrective actions, assist in the recovery of taxpayer dollars where appropriate and strengthen systems designed to protect Medicaid recipients and public funds.” Let's hope this action catches the bad actors.

Tom YamachikaJune 16, 2026

University of Hawai‘i sailing coach Andy Johnson retires

Johnson, the longest tenured coach at UH prior to the announcement, had been the school's sailing coach since 1989.

Christian ShimabukuJune 16, 2026

Waimānalo entrepreneur organizes curated monthly pop-up markets

This month’s Puʻuhonua Mākeke — which is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 20, at Puʻuhonua O Waimānalo — will feature 24 local vendors, raffles and prizes, lei and pāpale making workshops, and its signature free eggs and bread for the first 100 ʻohana. Organizer Lehua Kanahele-Santos, who owns Kanahele Roots and Pohinahina Kinis, talks about the heart behind the mākeke and her businesses, and what’s in store next.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 16, 2026

Pipikaula Corner: State blowing it on convention center

Hawai‘i lawmakers seem to think they own the only convention center on Earth, because their approach to investing in the Hawai‘i Convention Center ignores any sense of the marketplace. Towns the size of Hawaii‘i, in terms of population and visitor counts, are investing hundreds of millions in their facilities just to keep up with what the convention market wants, while we cheap out on the cost of fixing leaks.

A. Kam NapierJune 16, 2026

A staple in the Lahaina community: Māla Ocean Tavern

The restaurant, located on Front Street, officially reopened in February 2024 after closing due to the August 2023 Lahaina fire. Māla Ocean Tavern was the first restaurant to reopen on Front Street following the fires, and continues to serve as a popular spot for brunch and dinner in West Maui.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 16, 2026

For Sale: Hale ‘O Ka La, a $17.5M home in a Big Isle resort community

The 5,358-square-foot home is located on 0.86 acres at 62-3916 Lanikeha Place, within Mauna Kea Resort's Mauna Kea Fairways North community.

Stephanie SalmonsJune 15, 2026

James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards happening today

Neale Asato, owner of Asato Family Shop, is the only finalist from Hawai‘i.

Stephanie SalmonsJune 15, 2026

Poke business K. Bay Bros. now has a food truck

K Bay Bros On the Go started about two weeks ago. The business is popping up around Oʻahu; its schedule for the week will be posted on Instagram.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 15, 2026

Maui County review recommends total 'reform' of volunteer boards

The Maui County Cost of Government Commission found systemic dysfunction throughout 15 of the county's volunteer boards and commissions.

Michael BrestovanskyJune 13, 2026

Your guide to Father’s Day 2026: laugh, eat, fish

Ready to make Father’s Day plans? From fishing to eating, Aloha State Daily has your guide for how to celebrate on Oʻahu.

Katie HellandJune 13, 2026

Waikīkī Business Improvement District, Improvement Association to align management

The move aims to streamline operations, reduce overhead and enhance efficiency and goes into effect July 1.

Stephanie SalmonsJune 13, 2026

Where to celebrate Father’s Day 2026 – part 2

Whether you’re looking to dine-in or celebrate Father’s Day at home, we’ve got you covered. This guide also contains some local fare on Maui.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 13, 2026

Molokaʻi or Molokai, and why? ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi speakers, community share manaʻo

Aloha State Daily revisits the Molokaʻi or Molokai debate over the spelling and pronunciation of the place name — with or without an ʻokina — initially for our own house style guide used across the website. Here’s what we learned from community members statewide.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 13, 2026

Oakberry Hawaiʻi is opening its third store in ‘Āina Haina

The new store — located in ‘Āina Haina Shopping Center, in the former space of Uncle Clay’s House of Pure Aloha — will be celebrating its grand opening at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 13.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 12, 2026

High Watah, Three Plus headline first public late night event at Limelight Hawaiʻi

Keldin Calairo-Nakagawa, the lead singer of High Watah, reflects on a new performance venue on Oʻahu, which opens to the public on Saturday, June 13. The space will offer late night entertainment and is an approximately $15 million investment from Roberts Hawaiʻi.

Katie HellandJune 12, 2026

Nonprofit aims to scale programs to serve more ʻohana

Family Promise of Hawaiʻi Executive Director Ryan Catalani discusses findings from the most recent Point in Time Count and how the organization serving families on Oʻahu and Maui plans to be part of the solution to end homelessness.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 12, 2026

Coming soon, for six years

Maui County promised a new zoning code on a six-year timeline, notes ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa. The six years are up, the website says “coming soon,” and the County is calling for a fresh start.

Sterling HigaJune 12, 2026

West O‘ahu landfill no longer in the works

Makaiwa Hills landfill goes unfunded in county capital improvement budget.

Michael BrestovanskyJune 12, 2026

Dancer in diaspora brings art home to Oʻahu

Wehiwehi is an artist residency program that is bringing six Kanaka Maoli artists from Hawaiʻi and the Mainland together to collaborate on hula, mele, modern dance, theater and more. These artists will share their work in showcases at Shangri La and the Bishop Museum in June. Kealoha Ferreira is one of the artists living in the diaspora, who will return to Oʻahu this month to participate in the program.

Katie HellandJune 12, 2026

For sale: Queen Theater in Kaimukī

Originally constructed in 1936, the long-shuttered 12,497-square-foot theater sits on a 10,396-square foot parcel at 3588 Wai‘alae Ave.

Stephanie SalmonsJune 11, 2026

Coffee Cruiser offers lattes and stuffed croissants in West Oʻahu

The business sells coffees and matchas out of its 1973 VW bus. The business usually pops up at Laulani Community Park in ‘Ewa Beach, and partners with other local businesses, like Lyman Lattes, to offer baked goods with its beverages.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 11, 2026

Pipikaula Corner: Aloha, Stadium!

ASD Editor in Chief A. Kam Napier bids a personal, Gen X farewell to Aloha Stadium after watching some of the demolition firsthand. Anyone else remember The Police playing in ’84? This column is for you!

A. Kam NapierJune 11, 2026

Pan-Pacific Festival returns to Waikīkī

Bishop Shuji Komagata reflects on Hawaiʻi Matsuri Taiko’s mores than 30 years of performances at the Pan-Pacific Festival, a three-day event happening on Oʻahu this weekend.

Katie HellandJune 11, 2026

Award-winning food and travel series stops in Hawaiʻi

Chef Mark “Gooch” Noguchi, co-founder of nonprofit Chef Hui; pro surfer Nathan Florence; and Haleʻiwa-based musician Jack Johnson, who also runs the Kōkua Learning Farm through Kōkua Hawaiʻi Foundation; among others, showcased Hawaiʻi cuisine, culture and community on Huckberry’s series, “DIRT,” hosted by Josh Rosen. The episode, which culminates with a meal at the North Shore learning farm, dropped on May 28 and has garnered thousands of views already.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 11, 2026

Montana man charged with sending death threats to Gov. Green

Eric Boltz allegedly threatened to kill Gov. Green and his family across nine voicemails last December.

Michael BrestovanskyJune 11, 2026

UH Mānoa Athletics get $5M for NIL opportunities

Five donors have committed to give a combined $1 million annually for the next five years to support name, image and likeness opportunities for student-athletes.

Stephanie SalmonsJune 10, 2026

Hawai‘i's parking meters – when, where, and why?

Before parking meters came along, street parking in Hawai‘i was free — and a total free-for-all. ASD history columnist DeSoto Brown dives into how the parking meter got to the Islands.

DeSoto BrownJune 10, 2026

Biryani King serves Punjabi-style soul food

The eatery, which recently opened on Sheridan Street, offers a casual cafeteria-style dining experience in which customers can create their own one- or two-choice plates with options like butter chicken, meat biryani, samosas and more.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 10, 2026

Choco leʻa launches summer specials

The Mānoa dessert shop is offering its Hokkaido-style soft serve and popular iced chocolate drink with cold brew coffee on a regular basis for the next few months. The latter is a collaboration with Morning Glass Coffee.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 10, 2026

Retired veteran promoted to executive role at U.S. Vets Barber’s Point

Tamah-Lani Noh recently stepped into the role of executive director at U.S. Vets Barber’s Point, a branch of a nationwide nonprofit that serves veterans in need of housing, workforce development and case management, and more. Noh shares what drives her approach to leadership and her vision to create a homelessness prevention hub.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 10, 2026

Hamada: My favorite things

There have been plenty of heavy topics to write about in recent weeks, so for this week, let's have fun. Martinis, anyone?

Rick HamadaJune 10, 2026

Sacred Hauntings at Pūowaina

Pūowaina — Punchbowl Crater — holds tremendous energy after centuries of profound human activities. In ancient times, it housed a heiau puhi kanaka, a fire temple involving human sacrifice. Now it is home to the National Memorial Cemetery for America's war dead. In between those eras, it has housed canons and Easter services, a firing range and sledding slopes. Some say it houses spirits as well, who make themselves known even in broad daylight.

Lopaka Kapanui and Tanya KapanuiJune 10, 2026

Former director of Smithsonian National Zoological Park selected to lead Honolulu Zoo

John Berry, who started in his new role as Zoo Director on Tuesday, has held several senior leadership positions in the federal government and also brings experience in conservation, having previously served as the director of the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and director of the Smithsonian National Zoological Park.

Stephanie SalmonsJune 10, 2026

Hawai‘i's love affair with Botswana — and why it ended

For most Mainland United States locations, the antipode — the place on the directly opposite side of the globe — falls right in the middle of an ocean. For Hawai‘i, the antipode is in Africa. That realization was the beginning of a 1960s relationship between Hawai‘i and Botswana as that nation gained independence. Hawai‘i Governor John A. Burns was America's official representative at the independence ceremonies.

Perry ArrasmithJune 10, 2026

King Kamehameha Day, High Watah and hula: your guide to the weekend

Ready to plan the weekend? Don’t miss contests for mele, hula and mango recipes. There will be King Kamehameha Day celebrations, a Mele Conference & Hula Festival and the opening late-night event for Limelight Hawaiʻi, which will feature performances from High Watah and Three Plus.

Katie HellandJune 10, 2026

The Corndog Company of Hawaiʻi offers savory, hand-dipped treats

The Kahuku-based business now pops up at events across Oʻahu. It’s most known for its Epic dog — a one-fourth pound all-beef corndog — that’s coated in sweet and savory, golden-brown batter. The business will be popping up at the Haleʻiwa Arts Festival on June 13 and 14.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 10, 2026

The Well Kailua just launched a new summer menu

The Kailua coffee shop — which opened last September — just started seasonal specials like mango sticky rice matcha lattes and tiramisu lattes. Its summer menu will be available until August.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 10, 2026

Uncles and Aunties: The Logan ʻohana serve up sweet treats

Paul Logan, who grew up in Wahiawā, is having the time of his life as the “Uncle” of Uncle’s Ice Cream Sandwiches, which wholesales its sweet treats to 150 retailers on the Mainland and close to 200 statewide, including Foodland, Whole Foods and ABC stores. His wife, Barbara, helps manage the finances for the business and enjoys sharing about his post-Merchant Marine ventures such as surviving a super typhoon in Saipan with their two-month-old son, renovating a 200-year-old chateau near Verviers, Belgium, and more.

Cheryl Chee TsutsumiJune 10, 2026

Community Voices: What preserving Papahānaumokuākea means below the surface

Marine debris from lost or discarded commercial fishing nets to plastic and other waste carried to the ocean by streams, rivers and lakes, does not simply disappear at sea. Much of the debris collected in the massive Great Pacific Garbage Patch north of Hawaiʻi eventually converges on our shores — especially in Papahānaumokuākea National Marine Sanctuary. Despite relatively little of this waste originating in Hawaiʻi, our local community continues bearing the responsibility of ongoing cleanup efforts to protect one of the most sacred and ecologically significant places on Earth.

Philamer FelicitasJune 09, 2026

Community Voices: When Congestion Rules All

Honolulu DTS director of transit Jon Nouchi is set to lead a public discussion about human transit on June 27 at AIA Hawaiʻi's book club, which this quarter aims to examine how public transit influences connectivity, community planning and the future of Honolulu’s urban spaces. Nouchi gives ASD readers a taste of the upcoming conversation.

Jon NouchiJune 09, 2026

State Sen. Jarrett Keohokalole reactions to Act 11 lawsuit

SB2471 was the signature piece of legislation to emerge from the recent legislative session. Now it's a law, one that's already been challenged as unconstitutional. ASD reached out to the law's backers for comment.

A. Kam NapierJune 09, 2026

Gov. Green announces new DLNR leadership

Dawn Chang will retire as chairperson and director of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources next month. Gov. Josh Green has announced her replacement.

Katie HellandJune 09, 2026

Community Voices: Navigating the 'NIL'e

University of Hawaiʻi's Athletic Director Matt Elliott is determined to find a way to get millions in resources for college athletes to be compensated for their name, image and likeness (referred to as NIL). Although the Legislature tried to sink NIL funding, UH’s ship stubbornly refuses to go down, per the Tax Foundation of Hawaiʻi.

Tom YamachikaJune 09, 2026

FEMA fraud co-conspirator sentenced to two years in prison

Daylyn Harris, who pled guilty for stealing disaster relief monies related to the Lahaina and Pacific Palisades wildfires, will face two years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay back more than $60,000 to FEMA.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 09, 2026

The sword that spares

ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa shares gratitude for the police we send toward the danger the rest of us flee, especially in light of the manhunts for Jacob Baker and William “Billy” Sinclair.

Sterling HigaJune 09, 2026

Hawaiʻi 4-H livestock events teach youth real-life skills

Local youth from across the state have started showcasing their business and leadership skills after months of caring for steers and heifers, goats, pigs, poultry, and more, while learning how to sell them to buyers. Representatives for The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience share with Aloha State Daily more about how Hawaiʻi 4-H livestock programs are preparing students for work, as well as what to expect at the free community events this summer.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 08, 2026

House Without a Key launches new Sunday dinner buffet

The Halekulani eatery’s Aha ‘Aina Plantation Pā‘ina is a new Sunday dinner buffet that will run until Sept. 6. It celebrates Hawaiʻi’s diverse cultures, and guests will also have the chance to try the legendary KONG burger, created in partnership with radio icon Kamasami Kong.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 08, 2026

'America’s Got Talent' has Hawaiʻi contestants

These North Shore brothers will be featured in Season 21 of “America’s Got Talent.” Tune in Tuesday, June 9, to catch their performance.

Katie HellandJune 08, 2026

Letter to the Editor: ʻPraise and accoladesʻ for speaking truth

An ASD reader, born in Honolulu who now resides in Louisiana, gives kudos to columnist Sterling Higa for his take on the May 30 beating on Oʻahu's North Shore. "His article was faith-affirming and much needed in these days of violence," she writes.

Letters to the EditorJune 08, 2026

Coco’s Cravings 808 offers sweet and savory Japanese milk breads

While the business is known for its Cocobonz — cinnamon rolls made from Japanese-style milk bread dough — and savory pastries, connection through food continues to be essential for business owner Colleen Bui.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 08, 2026

Pipikaula Corner: Lawsuit filed against Act 11

Lawmakers said the state would get sued, even as they pushed SB2471 into law as Act 11, seeking to nullify the U.S. Supreme Court decision known as Citizens United. Grassroot Institute of Hawai‘i filed its lawsuit Friday, challenging the law as unconstitutional.

A. Kam NapierJune 06, 2026

Maui architect seeking national AIA leadership role

David Sellers, principal and co-founder of Maui-based Hawai‘i Off Grid, is running for 2027 president-elect of the national design organization. The election takes place this month.

Stephanie SalmonsJune 06, 2026

No law can raise the dead

Maybe police crackdowns or stricter parental discipline might've prevented the now infamous North Shore beatdowns, writes ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa, but at heart, the cruelties of that night are evidence of a deeper spiritual crisis in Hawai‘i.

Sterling HigaJune 06, 2026

26 free activities for keiki in summer 2026

Wondering what to do on Oʻahu with the keiki this summer? Aloha State Daily pulled together this list of upcoming activities such as free movies at the beach, access to multiple museums and live music.

Katie HellandJune 06, 2026

Mālama ʻāina every Saturday morning with Kuilei Cliffs

Nonprofit Kuilei Cliffs meets weekly at its namesake located on the makai slope of Lēʻahi, or Diamond Head, in Honolulu. From 8 to 11 a.m. on Saturdays, volunteers work to remove invasive species, and overgrown grasses and tree branches, for current and future generations to enjoy more green space and ocean views.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 05, 2026

Big Island Candies and 88 Tees launch second brand collaboration

The limited-edition collaboration features and exclusive gift box, tote bag, T-shirt and stickers. A portion of the proceeds from the sales of the Big Island Candies x 88 Tees collaboration box from June 5 to 30 will benefit 808 Cleanups.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 05, 2026

Making Sense of Hawai‘i’s Medicaid Fraud Conundrum

On Thursday, the federal government decertified and defunded Hawai‘i's Medicaid fraud unit in response to having spent millions on the unit for years while getting few results. ASD political historian Perry Arrasmith explains how we got here and what it means for Hawai‘i, where Gov. Josh Green had been on fairly good terms with the Trump administration on health matters.

Perry ArrasmithJune 05, 2026

New chancellor for UH Mānoa selected

The University of Hawai‘i Board of Regents unanimously approved the appointment of longtime UH leader Vassilis Syrmos to the role on Thursday.

Stephanie SalmonsJune 05, 2026

Four movies to see with ʻSunset on the Beachʻ in Waikīkī

Looking for a free family movie night on the beach where you can have your toes in the sand? That is possible through the "Sunset on the Beach" movie series, which started in May, and brings five family-friendly movies to Queen’s Beach in Waikīkī. Learn which movies are showing this summer.

Katie HellandJune 05, 2026

Bean on the Green is launching viral dot cake-inspired lattes

The coffee shop and matcha bar, located at Bayview Golf Course in Kāneʻohe, is open Fridays to Sundays. The business — which is open to the public, not only to golfers — is launching its trendy dot cake-inspired lattes and desserts this weekend; they will be available while supplies last.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 05, 2026

Local author shares new book with live art

Mililani author Karen Gibson released "My Mother's Alzheimer's Journey From Tokyo to Honolulu to Oblivion" in April. This Friday evening, she’ll be at the Waikīkī Ocean Gallery, inside the Outrigger Reef Waikīkī Beach Resort, for a live painting and talk story session.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 05, 2026

New law expands family leave

The legislation expands the state's Family Leave Law to allow eligible employees to take family leave for a "qualifying military exigency."

Stephanie SalmonsJune 05, 2026

OluKai collaborates with Jason and Travis Kelce

The Island-inspired footwear company is partnering with New Heights from Super Bowl Champions Jason and Travis Kelce on a new men’s sandal, which releases just before Father’s Day.

Katie HellandJune 05, 2026

Guaiqueri Empanadas offers authentic Venezuelan cuisine

The business, which opened in 2020, can now be found regularly at Plenty of Aloha’s market at the Varsity Building. Customers can look forward to arepas, empanadas, and featured specials that aren’t available at Guaiqueri Empanadas’ pop-up events.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 05, 2026

Obon season kicks off at Kaimukī Public Library

Aloha State Daily caught part of the Obon Dance Workshop! at Kaimukī Public Library on Tuesday, which attracted all ages learning traditional Bon dances, or Bon odori, led by Hawaiʻi Shin Kobukai amid the Japanese Buddhist summer festival season, which in Hawaiʻi runs now through October.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 04, 2026

Then & Now on Bishop Street: Buildings and Trees Grow Taller

DeSoto Brown, historian and curator for the Archives at Bishop Museum, joins ASD as a history columnist. In this debut, he shows us Bishop Street in Downtown Honolulu, as it was in 1949 and as it appears today, with the backstory on what you're seeing. Something on this street is older than you might guess. What do you think that might be?

DeSoto BrownJune 04, 2026

Where to celebrate Father’s Day 2026 - part 1

Whether you’re looking to dine-in or celebrate at home, we’ve got you covered.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 04, 2026

Here's who's running for office in 2026, part 1

Tuesday marked the filing deadline for prospective political candidates. See who's running for state offices here.

Michael BrestovanskyJune 04, 2026

Here's who's running for office in 2026, part 2

Tuesday marked the filing deadline for prospective political candidates. Here's who's on the ballot for city and county elections this year.

Stephanie SalmonsJune 04, 2026

Want to smell a corpse flower?

Today, you can at Foster Botanical Garden, where one is in bloom for the second time in 2026. For a limited time, this giant stinky flower will be emitting memorable odors. It is one of many plants on display at Foster Botanical Garden.

Katie HellandJune 04, 2026

Community Voices: 'Reestablishing food sovereignty for Hawaiʻi is a kākou effort'

Adapted from an undergraduate research thesis, student Rose Angelo talks with Maui community members about Hawaiʻi's "drastic change in food production and security, and how can Hawaiians come together to steward the land and their communities."

Rose AngeloJune 03, 2026

Community Voices: Our Big Tax Bill Act

Senate Bill 3125 — signed into law on May 21 and became Act 24 — changes individual tax rates, adds a new millionaires’ tax bracket, adds limits to the solar credit, and gets rid of several different business tax credits over time.

Tom YamachikaJune 03, 2026

Tempura Man offers udon and tempura bowls in Kakaʻako

The new business is located at Aloha Mamacita’s takeout window at Waterfront Plaza. The menu features made-to-order tempura bowls and udon; tempura is also available a la carte.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 03, 2026

Hamada: North Shore beating sickens

A dozen boys and men ganged up on a 15-year-old boy this week, then turned on the young lifeguard who tried to save him. ASD opinion columnist Rick Hamada asks — who the heck raised these people, and what are we going to do about this crime?

Rick HamadaJune 03, 2026

Dog-Spirits and Moʻo at Kapena Falls

Who — or what — lives in the pond beneath Kapena Falls in Nu‘uanu Valley? In ancient legends, the valley has been home to guardian dogs with supernatural abilities, and creatures who can take both human and lizard form. For some visitors to the valley, those legends haven't been so ancient after all.

Lopaka Kapanui and Tanya KapanuiJune 03, 2026

Federal lawsuit targets state hemp regulations

An O‘ahu dispensary has claimed that Hawai‘i's laws regulating hemp are illegal.

Michael BrestovanskyJune 03, 2026

The Park Ward Village opens

The ninth residence in Ward Village, The Park delivers 546 studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom homes and more than 30,000 square feet of retail and dining space.

Stephanie SalmonsJune 03, 2026

Pipikaula Corner: UH athletics and the race for dollars

Name, Image, Likeness is already upsetting the finances of college sports. Now there's a new trend — universities are starting to spin off their entire athletics programs as freestanding corporations. Where will this leave the University of Hawai‘i?

A. Kam NapierJune 03, 2026

Corpse flower, Festa Italiana and more: Your guide to the weekend on Oʻahu

Check the status of Foster Botanical Garden’s corpse flower, which is known for its powerful death-like smell that might bloom this week. Think that idea stinks? Then, eat food at a street festival or enjoy live Reggae music. There is also an outdoors expo happening this weekend.

Katie HellandJune 03, 2026

HANO report highlights current challenges, opportunities for local nonprofits

Melissa Miyashiro, president and CEO of the Hawai'i Alliance of Nonprofit Organizations, shares how its 2026 state of the sector report, “The View From Here: Insights From Hawai'i Nonprofits," came to be, and what conversations she hopes this will spark for the sector, policymakers, the public and more, to take action.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosJune 03, 2026

Cinnamon’s Sweet Shop is open in Kailua

The sister business of Cinnamon’s Restaurant offers housemade cookies, specialty drinks like cream sodas, and a rotating selection of soft serve desserts.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 02, 2026

Blanc Nook Café opens in Honolulu

The cozy café recently opened on Waimanu Street; it’s located above Ry’s Poke Shack’s Honolulu location. The space is home to an apparel line and a café, and business owner Momo Sakauye plans to expand the café menu to include more drinks.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 02, 2026

Too much sunshine

Transparency is great, but it isn't the only value government has to weigh, writes ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa. There's so much sunshine on some commission hiring that good applicants might shy away for fear of getting needlessly burned.

Sterling HigaJune 02, 2026

Mililani teacher housing project still on schedule

95 apartments for Department of Education employees are scheduled to be move-in ready by late 2029 or early 2030.

Michael BrestovanskyJune 02, 2026

Documentary spotlights Maui wildfire

"Lahaina Rising" focuses on how the devastating Lahaina wildfire of August 2023 changed lives and ignited already existing concerns about water rights and land. Director Matty Schweitzer shares more about the award-winning documentary, which will screen at the inaugural Wailuku Film Festival in June.

Katie HellandJune 02, 2026

Community Voices: How Hawaiʻi parents can set kids free from digital addiction

A Mililani mom and certified life coach/private tutor shares tips on how local families can break free from daily struggles with screen time.

Karen K.C. GibsonJune 02, 2026

Community Voices: Lawmakers choose innovation over red tape

We can’t predict whether seagliders will take off as an efficient and economical way to travel interisland, but it is nice to know that efforts are being made to ensure the potential growth of a new industry will not be held back by unnecessary regulations, writes Grassroot Institute of Hawai‘i's Keli‘i Akina.

Keliʻi AkinaJune 02, 2026

Akira Japanese Restaurant has a new happy hour

The Japanese eatery recently launched a new happy hour menu, available daily from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. and from 8 to 9:30 p.m. Popular dishes include sashimi and sushi of the day, yuzu jalapeno hamachi and oysters with ponzu.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 02, 2026

CU Hawaiʻi opens third store on Oʻahu

The popular Korean convenience store brand recently opened in Kapahulu. Customers can enjoy popular features like the smoothie machine and Ramyun Library, in addition to slushy machines that are exclusive to this store. To celebrate its Kapahulu opening, CU Hawaiʻi is giving away tickets to BTS World Tour Arirang until June 4.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 02, 2026

What to expect at Kaua‘i Poke Fest

The sixth annual culinary event is set for June 19 and 20 at Kōloa Landing Resort at Poʻipū, Autograph Collection.

Stephanie SalmonsJune 02, 2026

UPDATE: Kīlauea's latest eruptive episode ends after 9 hours

Episode 48 of the ongoing eruption began before sunrise Monday.

Stephanie SalmonsJune 01, 2026

Budget Bites: $4 hand roll deal in Honolulu

Osoyami Bar & Grill features sports bar fare like burgers, fries and mozzarella sticks, but it’s also a hidden gem for sushi. The eatery launched a new deal, which features $4 hand rolls available every night except on Fridays and Saturdays.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaJune 01, 2026

OHA Board decides not to pursue proposed KITV- KIKU acquisition

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees voted Thursday against funding due diligence for the potential purchase of local television stations KITV Island News and KIKU TV.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 30, 2026

Kaua‘i Council halts land purchase over chemical contamination concerns

A $5 million land purchase for a county auto repair shop drew questions about long-term environmental impacts.

Michael BrestovanskyMay 30, 2026

Servco Pacific unveils exclusive Hawai‘i edition Toyota Tacoma

The Tacoma has been Hawai‘i's top-selling vehicle for 25 years.

Stephanie SalmonsMay 30, 2026

Former Hawai‘i County housing official sentenced for bribery scheme

Alan Scott Rudo was paid nearly $1.9 million for conspiring to fraudulently award housing development contracts to his associates.

Michael BrestovanskyMay 30, 2026

The politics downstream

Presidents used to emerge out of whistlestop tours, radio address, television and cable. Now, for the youngest voters and voters-to-be, political power gathers in the frenetic world of livestreams. ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa talks about what this means.

Sterling HigaMay 30, 2026

Okome Ten-don & Poke now offers Korean fried chicken

The Kakaʻako eatery, known for its tempura and poke bowls, opened last December. The business recently expanded its menu to include Korean-style fried chicken, kalbi and tteokbokki.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 29, 2026

Cat Café Maui nominated for 10Best list

Several other Hawai‘i businesses are also up for spots on various other 10Best lists.

Stephanie SalmonsMay 29, 2026

Bird calls, retro Waikīkī in spotlight at upcoming HSO concert

The modern exotica ensemble Waitiki 7 will perform at several venues, including with the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra in a one-night performance at the Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall in June. The group will also give a special performance with the legendary Harold Chang — the original drummer and percussionist in the Martin Denny and Arthur Lyman groups that started the genre — in a cocktail lounge at Halekulani Hotel.

Katie HellandMay 29, 2026

Hawaiian Airlines moving to pre-paid meals in main cabin for most Mainland flights

Travelers will be able to pre-order from a menu curated by Maui-based chef Sheldon Simeon starting July 1.

Stephanie SalmonsMay 29, 2026

Brandi-Ann Uyemura releases first book about Obon festival

In late March, the Kailua-based writer launched children’s book, “I am a Bon Dancer,” inspired by her own experiences with her grandfather attending Obon festivals in Hanapēpē. The author is hosting a couple of events open to the public at Kaimukī Library on May 31 and June 2, with more to be announced.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 29, 2026

Octogenarian sues Honolulu over $600,000 fines

Sandra May was told she owed the city hundreds of thousands of dollars over an improper online rental listing.

Michael BrestovanskyMay 29, 2026

'Memory Beads' premieres at Kumu Kahua Theatre

Memory, aging and identity are at the heart of this play from retired public school teacher Diane Aoki. A story that came out of a challenge at a festival for playwrights is now finding its way to the stage for the first time in its entirety at Kumu Kahua Theatre.

Katie HellandMay 29, 2026

Goofy Café & Dine opens second location

This popular brunch spot — whose original location is near Hilton Hawaiian Village — opened a second location at The Twin Fin Hotel. This new location features brunch, lunch, happy hour and an expanded dinner menu. The café’s grand opening is Friday, May 29.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 28, 2026

Kimberly Agas promoted to new leadership role at Aulani

Agas, who has been general manager of the Disney resort in Ko Olina for the past decade, is now executive director, a newly created position.

Stephanie SalmonsMay 28, 2026

Volunteer at fire restoration nursery in Kula this Friday

The Rotary Club of Upcountry Maui is hosting a community volunteer service day from 9 a.m. to noon on Friday, May 29, at the Kula Community Watershed Alliance’s Community Restoration Nursery. Participants will plant and propagate Native Hawaiian species, which are helping to restore the Kula burn area from the August 2023 wildfires.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 28, 2026

Lytvynchuk pleads 'not guilty' in monk seal case

Igor Lytvynchuk will be barred from O‘ahu beaches as his court case over an alleged attack on a Hawaiian monk seal continues.

Michael BrestovanskyMay 28, 2026

Hilton Grand Vacations, Honolulu Habitat work to finish Waimānalo home

Mitch Yokoyama, general manager of Hokulani Waikīkī, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club, reflects on the rewards of volunteering with HGV Serves, a corporate social responsibility program with several community partners, including Habitat for Humanity International. Yokoyama and colleagues recently joined Honolulu Habitat on a home build project in Waimānalo. Aloha State Daily also checked in with two Honolulu Habitat employees — Shana and Feta Petelo, the mother-daughter team that works directly with local families and volunteers.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 28, 2026

Hawaiʻi Food and Wine Festival announces line-up

The festival features renowned chefs across three Islands this year. Learn about the 11 events the festival announced on Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi Island and Maui.

Katie HellandMay 27, 2026

Hamada: Road rage justice served

Hawai‘i has a reputation for being soft on crime but recently, victims of a multi-state road rager in California held a press conference to thank Hawai‘i for serving a tougher sentence on him than their own state had. Now, can we do something about the road ragers still among us?

Rick HamadaMay 27, 2026

Everest Grill offers Indian and Nepali cuisine in Windward Oʻahu

The eatery, located in the former space of Kogi Aina in Kāneʻohe, opened earlier this year. Customers can enjoy a variety of popular Indian dishes, ranging from chicken momo and vegetable samosas to biryani and tandoor specialties.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 27, 2026

The Sweet Stand is a new bake stand in Kapolei

Business owner Ivy-Ann Fernandez, who originally opened home café Midori Matcha last year, decided to pivot and start a walk-up bake stand. Customers can enjoy a rotating selection of baked goods — ranging from cinnamon rolls and banana bread loaves to focaccia bread — and look forward to matcha and coffee bottled lattes in the future.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 27, 2026

The news according to OHA

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs has shown an interest in purchasing a television station. ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa thinks this might not do for OHA what the agency would like in terms of controlling the message.

Sterling HigaMay 27, 2026

Ghosts Run This Gulch

From ancient battles to modern car crashes, a lot has happened around Roosevelt Bridge, where Kamehameha Highway crosses over Kīpapa Gulch. Is it any wonder it has a reputation for hauntings?

Lopaka Kapanui and Tanya KapanuiMay 27, 2026

CONGRESS WATCH: Firework laundering

Hawai‘i lawmakers introduce bill making fireworks trafficking prosecutable under money laundering laws.

Michael BrestovanskyMay 27, 2026

$Luna’s Tex-Mex Cantina is open in Ward Village$

Luna’s Tex-Mex Cantina is open in Ward Village

The restaurant opened about a week ago and is still in its soft opening phase. Customers can expect dishes like ceviche, housemade tortilla chips and guac, elotes, steak and chicken fajitas, and Baja fish tacos. The eatery is planning to extend its hours to include lunch service.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 27, 2026

West O‘ahu redevelopment breaks ground

A blessing ceremony was held Thursday for the redevelopment of the former Paradise Cove Lū‘au site near Ko Olina.

Stephanie SalmonsMay 27, 2026

Laughs, science and more: What to do on Oʻahu this weekend

Already dreaming of the weekend after three days off? Aloha State Daily can help you make plans for Friday, May 29, through Sunday, May 31. From a women in rap party in Waikīkī to stand-up comedy in Kapolei, there are lots of events happening this weekend on Oʻahu.

Katie HellandMay 27, 2026

Community Voices: A good lesson in curtailing government growth

Kudos to Councilmember Val Okimoto and the Honolulu Budget Committee, which made the fiscally responsible decision this week to ax most of the funding for the city’s Office of Economic Recovery.

Keliʻi AkinaMay 26, 2026

New rodeo highlights Hawaiian cowboy heritage on Hawaiʻi Island

“Paniolo Legends Under the Lights” is produced by third-generation paniolo Aki Smith, owner of Paniolo Culture Co. Presented in partnership with 1832 Hawaiʻi Living Co. and Waikōloa Stables, the evening includes rodeo events in the historic arena, a meal from Chef Nakoa Pabre of Umekes, live music and time to talk story with cowboys.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 26, 2026

Chart House Waikīkī has a new late-night menu

The eatery’s new late-night menu is served nightly from 9 to 10:30 p.m. at the bar for dine-in only. Customers can enjoy plate lunch-style entrees like Hawaiian chopped steak and boneless prime barbecue short ribs.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 26, 2026

Pālolo proud: Jayden Maiava doesn't shy away from his roots along football journey

Maiava, the first Polynesian quarterback to start for USC, took some time back home before the most consequential season of his young football career

Christian ShimabukuMay 26, 2026

The Surfing Pig has a hidden speakeasy

The Kaimukī eatery is also home to an “if you know, you know” speakeasy, which opened last fall. Customers must call the restaurant to make reservations for the speakeasy.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 26, 2026

HHSAA reveals Hall of Honor Class of 2026

Twelve student athletes will each receive a $2,000 scholarship. Honorees come from public and private high schools and represent a wide range of sports, from swimming to football.

Christian ShimabukuMay 25, 2026

Community Voices: The people who will save Hawai‘i

Katie Chang, executive director of Center for Tomorrow's Leaders, talks about why she's bullish on Hawai‘i's future. She sees a thousand reasons each year — the number of student leaders in CTL's programs who are going to fight for their Hawai‘i.

Katie ChangMay 25, 2026

Community Voices: From resistance to regeneration at Waipā

Waipā’s efforts have expanded beyond growing food. They are also raising future farmers and community advocates. The valley serves as an outdoor classroom, providing educational programs for schools, families and community members.

Philamer FelicitasMay 25, 2026

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue continues Mainland expansion

The Hawai‘i-based restaurant chain has recently opened new locations in Washington and California.

Stephanie SalmonsMay 25, 2026

Community Voices: Changes to the solar credit

SB3125 proposes a few significant changes to the credit, making the solar industry unhappy. If the bill is enacted, here's what timelines taxpayers should know.

Tom YamachikaMay 25, 2026

Department of Education gears up for new cell phone policy

All state schools will prohibit phone use by elementary and middle schoolers during school hours, and could do the same for high schoolers.

Michael BrestovanskyMay 25, 2026

Windward Community College professor named Guggenheim Fellow

Kapulani Landgraf, a professor of art at Windward Community College was recently named a Guggenheim Fellow. She spoke with Aloha State Daily recently about her work.

Katie HellandMay 25, 2026

Remembering the Fallen

More than 1,600 men and women from Hawai‘i have died serving their country in wartime. For Memorial Day, we pulled together this guide to online resources where you can find nearly every single name.

A. Kam NapierMay 25, 2026

KCC’s summer culinary cohorts to get cooking

Kapiʻolani Community College’s Culinary Institute of the Pacific, in partnership with Culinary Institute of America, is offering two culinary training programs at no cost for high school students and culinary professionals in June. The deadline to apply is through Friday, May 29.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 23, 2026

Lambert says no to deputy chief role for the time being

Mike Lambert, who will return to HPD later this year, won't be incoming Chief David Lazar's deputy for the foreseeable future, nor will he run again for the top spot, he said Friday.

Michael BrestovanskyMay 23, 2026

Honolulu launches AI training program for O‘ahu businesses, nonprofits

The city's Office of Economic Revitalization, in partnership with Māpunawai and Skilled Tomorrow, is set to launch "AI for Everyone at Work: Training Trainers to Teach Across Generations." The program aims to help organizations on the island introduce artificial intelligence "in practical, responsible and accessible ways for a multigenerational workforce."

Stephanie SalmonsMay 23, 2026

Hamada: How corrupt is Hawai‘i?

Most public servants get through the day doing absolutely nothing wrong. But as ASD opinion columnist Rick Hamada observes, there have been more than enough high-profile cases of corruption to justify the perception that Hawai‘i can be pretty rotten.

Rick HamadaMay 23, 2026

Flowers, volunteers needed ahead of Memorial Day

Girl Scouts Hawaiʻi is collecting flowers and ti leaves for lei to honor the more than 10,000 service members at the Hawaiʻi State Veteran’s Cemetery in Kāneʻohe. On Saturday, May 23, members of the public are invited to join them in creating lei.

Katie HellandMay 23, 2026

Darren Matsuda out as Punahou boys basketball coach

The Buffanblu won three HHSAA titles under Matsuda.

Christian ShimabukuMay 23, 2026

This Italian eatery has a new ‘land and sea’ themed menu

Botanico Waikīkī, which opened last fall, recently launched a new dinner menu. It highlights premium ingredients from the earth and ocean. Customers can enjoy dishes ranging from an anchovy and mentaiko potato salad and crab cream linguine to a crispy swordfish cutlet.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 22, 2026

Kumu Earl Kawaʻa, haumana recognized for Board and Stone

Born and raised on Molokaʻi, Kawaʻa has offered Board and Stone to ʻohana across the Islands since 2010. The cultural classes teach families how to carve a wooden board (papa kuʻi ʻai) and shape a stone poi pounder (pōhaku) using only hand tools, while perpetuating Hawaiian traditions, language, moʻolelo and more. Last month, the Hawaiʻi House of Representatives honored him and his team for their dedication to community.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 22, 2026

Aloha Stadium tours to be made available to University of Hawai‘i football recruits

Executive Director Michael Yadao believes it's important for prospective players to be able to take a look at their future home.

Christian ShimabukuMay 22, 2026

NOAA predicts strong hurricane season

An early forecast of this year's hurricane season estimates between five and 13 tropical cyclones in the Eastern and Central Pacific, and Hawai‘i residents are advised to start preparing now.

Michael BrestovanskyMay 22, 2026

Budget Bites: $13 poke bowls at Noods Ramen Bar Hawaiʻi Kai

These poke bowls are only available at the ramen business’s East Oʻahu store. Choose from spicy ‘ahi, hurricane, ginger scallion and spicy garlic crunch.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 22, 2026

The stories underneath

ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa explores how an extensive story on homelessness by Civil Beat raises issues where both the political left and political right can do better on their approaches to solving the problem.

Sterling HigaMay 22, 2026

Tax cuts saved: Green signs bill to preserve most upcoming tax cuts

Despite previous announcements that future tax cuts would need to be paused, Gov. Josh Green signed on Thursday a measure that preserves most of them.

Michael BrestovanskyMay 22, 2026

Backset drops new single “Up Late”

The ‘Āina Haina-based band Backset is releasing its first single from a six-song extended play this week. Aloha State Daily caught up with Gabriel Goes, who also performed on NBC’s “The Voice,” Hawaiian Council’s “Hawaiʻi to the World,” and more, about his inspiration for the new music and how to listen.

Katie HellandMay 22, 2026

Maui eatery included on 'legendary' best-of list

Only in Your State’s newest 50 Best list looks at 'Legendary Local Restaurants Across the U.S.' A popular Pā‘ia restaurant is included.

Stephanie SalmonsMay 21, 2026

Vintage Books Hawaiʻi relaunches brunch service with new chef

Chef Keith Endo, whose culinary background includes leading the kitchens at Vino and Ki Club, is now the executive chef at this Kaimukī speakeasy. Vintage Books Hawaiʻi re-launched its weekend brunch with a new menu in mid-April.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 21, 2026

Hawai‘i baseball eliminated from Big West Conference tournament

The Rainbow Warriors fell to Cal State Fullerton in Wednesday's tournament play-in game, ending their tenure in the Big West.

Christian ShimabukuMay 21, 2026

Dave Lazar named as next Honolulu Police Chief

Honolulu Police Commission names former San Francisco assistant chief to lead Honolulu Police Department. His start date is up in the air, pending a deeper background investigation and contract negotiations.

Michael BrestovanskyMay 21, 2026

Hawai‘i Pacific University set to add women's flag football program

HPU will be the first college athletics program in the state to add flag football.

Christian ShimabukuMay 21, 2026

Rainbow Drive-In has a new happy hour

The business’s new happy hour menu is at the Kapahulu location only on Mondays to Thursdays. Customers can enjoy $5, $10 and $12 specials, ranging from small Slush floats and chili fries to barbecue burgers and loco moco plates.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 21, 2026

New Korean fusion pop-up in Kaimukī

KoLab, formerly located in Kakaʻako, now offers a Korean-inspired breakfast within Kaimukī’s Aloha Bakehouse & Café. The biz offers fresh poke with crispy waffle rice, egg salad sandos and joomuk bap, or savory Korean rice balls.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 21, 2026

Maui County looks to acquire water assets from Maui Land & Pineapple

The county says this move marks the first phase of a broader effort that aims to also secure other private water systems in Olowalu and Launiupoko.

Stephanie SalmonsMay 21, 2026

Taimane, Los Lobos to headline Maui Music and Food Experience

Music and food are on the menu for the third annual Maui Music and Food Experience, which will host several days of performances in Kāʻanapali in August. The event’s headliners were announced this week. Proceeds of the two-day event will benefit Hua Momona Foundation, which is working to feed the community, help Lahaina rebuild and foster a youth music scene on Maui.

Katie HellandMay 20, 2026

Pipikaula Corner: David Lazar, Kate Steinle and Honolulu’s future

One of the top three candidates for Honolulu Police Chief, David Lazar of San Francisco, has stated his intention to never let HPD cooperate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. These are the kinds of policies widely believed to have been the reason why Kathryn "Kate" Steinle was killed in 2015 by a five-time deportee, out on the streets of San Francisco because local authorities refused to work with federal agencies on immigration cases.

A. Kam NapierMay 20, 2026

Intermediate Ghosts

If you thought just being in the 7th or 8th grade was scary, imagine if some tragic set of circumstances had you trapped there in the afterlife! Stories abound about the things seen at Robert Louis Stevenson Middle School in Honolulu, long known as an "Intermediate School" in the DOE naming system. Ancient warriors. Headless bodies. A cop on his beat. A mysterious woman in high heels. All these and more.

Lopaka Kapanui and Tanya KapanuiMay 20, 2026

Hawai‘i baseball set for final Big West Conference tournament

The Rainbow Warriors will take on Cal State Fullerton in Wednesday's play-in game.

Christian ShimabukuMay 20, 2026

Hawai‘i Island 'Burning Man' festival given green light

Windward Planning Commission approves application for "Falls On Fire" festival, despite trepidation from neighbors.

Michael BrestovanskyMay 20, 2026

What to do on Oʻahu for Memorial Day weekend

From sewing lei for service members to the Shinnyo Lantern Floating Hawaiʻi, there are lots of events happening on Oʻahu this weekend. Aloha State Daily rounded up some of the ceremonies and activities, so you can make plans.

Katie HellandMay 19, 2026

New frozen Greek yogurt spot in Honolulu

Aloha Greek Waikīkī opened recently on Kūhiō Avenue. The business offers self-serve frozen Greek yogurt with Hawaiʻi-inspired flavors like ube, mango, liliko‘i and pineapple.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 19, 2026

Community Voices: Why is Haleakalā a sacred place?

On Haleakalā, the land from where the forest begins up to the summit is considered a wao akua (realm of gods). The summit itself is called the piko, or highest point, which draws down nourishment that feeds the entire, living, breathing mountain system.

Hina KneubuhlMay 19, 2026

Da Morning Grind Cafe is tucked away within a laundromat

The business’s takeout window is located on South King Street. Open for grab-and-go, the café offers a variety of coffees, teas, dirty sodas and specialty drinks, including a twist on the London Fog latte.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 19, 2026

Top cops: The last Mainland HPD chief?

Dave Lazar, candidate for Honolulu's police chief, promises strong leadership, technological improvements and no deals with ICE.

Michael BrestovanskyMay 19, 2026

Boys and Girls Club of Hawaiʻi’s annual fundraiser kicks off

Since 2017, Great Futures Day has aimed to raise awareness and funds for the nonprofit, which is celebrating 50 years of serving youth in the Islands. Throughout the dubbed the “Week of Aloha,” which runs from May 18 to 22, donors can double their impact thanks to various partners.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 19, 2026

Exhibit on Robert Cazimero extends through next week

A special exhibit honoring the work of legendary musician and Kumu Hula Robert Cazimero has been extended due to popular demand. Catch it at Gallery ‘Iolani at Windward Community College.

Katie HellandMay 19, 2026

Affordable housing development opens in Makiki

Makiki Banyan is the fifth project from Lam Capital developed under the City and County of Honolulu's Bill 7 program.

Stephanie SalmonsMay 19, 2026

Ben Sasse is dying in public

The former U.S. senator from Nebraska is talking about big ideas everywhere he can as pancreatic cancer takes his life. Hawai‘i's politicians could learn from what he has to say about government doing fewer things well, says ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa.

Sterling HigaMay 19, 2026

Ry’s Poke Shack opens in Honolulu

The Kahuku-based biz opened its second location on Oʻahu this past weekend. The Honolulu location is located in the Ala Moana neighborhood next to Jugo Life, and features specialty collaboration poke flavors.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 19, 2026

Community Voices: Keep following the yellow brick road

A look at more Hawaiʻi tax bills on their way to Gov. Green’s desk.

Tom YamachikaMay 18, 2026

Jarod Hester now oversees Oʻahu’s Polynesian Cultural Center

Earlier this month, Hester succeeded P. Alfred Grace as president and CEO of the cultural attraction in Lāʻie and in his role plans to prioritize people — workforce, guests and community members. Hester, who previously served as PCC's chief operating officer and chief financial officer, is originally from New Zealand and shares what initially drew his family to Hawaiʻi nearly 13 years ago, pleasant surprises in the role so far, and his vision to continue to enhance experiences at PCC.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 18, 2026

Community Voices: More housing reforms for Hawaiʻi

If the governor approves these particular measures, 2026 will go down as yet another year in which the Legislature made significant progress toward resolving Hawaiʻi’s housing crisis.

Keliʻi AkinaMay 18, 2026

This acai bowl shop has a new location in Kāneʻohe

HI Cravings Windward opened a storefront in Kāneʻohe last March. It recently relocated to Windward City Shopping Center earlier this month, and now features extended hours.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 18, 2026

Moanalua wins 2026 HHSAA Division I girls flag football championship

Na Menehune staged a late, dramatic comeback to win its first state title in girls flag football.

Christian ShimabukuMay 17, 2026

Makana Wade coaches Le Jardin to first state title in boys volleyball

Makana Wade, the son of UH men's volleyball head coach Charlie Wade, led the Bulldogs to the HHSAA title in his first season at the helm.

Christian ShimabukuMay 17, 2026

Green signs anti-corporate spending bill

Senate Bill 2471, now Act 11, aims to limit corporate influence on Hawai‘i's elections

Michael BrestovanskyMay 16, 2026

'Groundbreaking' film combines Chile, Hawaiʻi and hula

The short film “Pilina” combines cultural influences from Chile and Hawaiʻi with a common language: dance. Chilean American Filmmaker Carolina Espiro and Mānoa-based Producer Jana Park spoke with Aloha State Daily about the production, which will debut in early 2027.

Katie HellandMay 16, 2026

Top cops: HPD chief candidate Mike Lambert wants to improve officer morale

Department of Law Enforcement director Mike Lambert believes fixing officer retention is the key to improving Honolulu's police

Michael BrestovanskyMay 16, 2026

For sale: Tantalus home made for an architect

The 2,798-square-foot house is located on a 1-acre rim lot at 228 Forest Ridge Way.

Stephanie SalmonsMay 16, 2026

Festa Italiana 2026 is coming this June

The ticketed Passaporto Italiano VIP experience is June 5, while the street festival — which is free to attend — is June 6. The festival highlights a selection of authentic Italian and Italian-American restaurants and chefs from both Italy and Hawaiʻi.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 15, 2026

Hawai‘i men's volleyball standout Kristian Titriyski to turn pro early

Titriyski is forgoing his final two seasons of collegiate eligibility to turn pro in his native Bulgaria.

Christian ShimabukuMay 15, 2026

Hawai‘i men's volleyball makes the rounds following national championship

The Rainbow Warriors and their coaches have made a bevy of public appearances since winning the 2026 national championship match on Monday.

Christian ShimabukuMay 15, 2026

UHERO warns higher prices to come as Iran war continues

UHERO's second quarterly forecast significantly less rosy than the first after Strait of Hormuz closure.

Michael BrestovanskyMay 15, 2026

And the Nā Hōkū Hanohano finalists are…

The Hawaiʻi Academy of Recording Arts has released the list of finalists for its prestigious Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards. Nominees were selected for each of almost 30 categories. Awards include Album of the Year, Song of the Year, Female Vocalist of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year, and more.

Katie HellandMay 15, 2026

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue aims for record year

April was a record month for the Hawai‘i-based chain which has opened 13 new locations this year, including six in April alone. CEO Elisia Flores says the chain expects to open even more before 2026 ends.

Stephanie SalmonsMay 15, 2026

Mākaha waterman receives lifetime achievement award

Brian Keaulana got his start in the movie industry as a stuntman. Recently, the waterman was a producer for Apple TV’s “Chief of War,” which stars his cousin, Jason Momoa, and Fox’s “Rescue: HI-Surf.” Keaulana reflects on the ocean, plus opportunities for youth to grow into careers in the film industry, where he has worked for more than three decades.

Katie HellandMay 15, 2026

Honolulu to consider landfill alternatives

Honolulu City Council passes resolution forming "End Landfills Task Force"

Michael BrestovanskyMay 15, 2026

'Play with a purpose' at this kids gym in Honolulu

Owner of We Rock the Spectrum Honolulu John Ross shares the intention behind his first venture inspired by his son with autism and the families who are navigating a similar path. He describes it as "a place where every child, neurotypical or not, is genuinely celebrated."

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 15, 2026

Reckoning With George Ariyoshi’s Hawai‘i

ASD political history columnist Perry Arrasmith takes a deep dive into the career, accomplishments and legacy of the late Gov. George Ariyoshi. His last year in office was 1986 but, as Arrasmith explains, the social and political tensions Ariyoshi navigated remain with us to this day.

Perry ArrasmithMay 15, 2026

Magdaleno magnificent again as Hawai‘i clinches Big West tournament berth

Working on short rest, UH's ace tossed his second one-hit shutout of the month, striking out 14 CSUN batters in a 4-0 win on Wednesday night with his family in attendance.

Christian ShimabukuMay 14, 2026

PizzAlba is a new pizza pop-up in Kakaʻako

PizzAlba pops up on Thursdays in the space next to Bevy in Kakaʻako. You can also find the pizza biz at the Kakaʻako and Kailua farmers markets on Saturdays and Sundays, respectively.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 14, 2026

First look at Sonic’s new Oʻahu location

Sonic Kapolei, located at 5001 Kapolei Parkway, is opening May 16. This is the brand’s first drive-in restaurant on the island and Hawaiʻi’s second Sonic location. Customers can look forward to Sonic’s signature burgers, drinks and a Hawaiʻi-exclusive menu item.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 14, 2026

Hawai‘i Realtors Charitable Foundation offering grants to residents affected by March storms

The foundation — the charitable arm of Hawai‘i Realtors — will distribute a total of $200,000 in grants to aid in storm relief.

Stephanie SalmonsMay 14, 2026

Fundraiser for farms surpasses goal

Thanks to you and an anonymous donor, we raised more than $200,000 for the Hawai‘i Farmers Union Foundation's Hawai‘i Flood Response Fund. The GoFundMe page remains open as more donations come in that will help Hawai‘i’s farmers and rural communities devastated by recent Kona Low storms.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 14, 2026

Hamada: Lawmakers saved the tax cuts with a "tax the rich" increase

ASD opinion columnist Rick Hamada assesses the Legislative session and find just one idea reigning in the Big Square Building. Tax the "rich," even when preserving tax cuts. Do they know who the rich really are?

Rick HamadaMay 14, 2026

Man arrested for attack on monk seal

Igor Lytvynchuk, who reportedly said he is "rich enough to pay the fines" from allegedly attacking an endangered Hawaiian monk seal, faces up to $70,000 in fines and potential prison time.

Michael BrestovanskyMay 14, 2026

'Top Gun' and 'Top Gun: Maverick' return to theaters

These Tom Cruise movies are back on the big screen after the original film premiered 40 years ago and “Top Gun: Maverick” hit theaters in 2022. Watch the action movies at Consolidated Theatres in four locations through next week.

Katie HellandMay 14, 2026

H-1 closures planned in June, July

A portion of the freeway will be closed for improvement work, the state Department of Transportation says.

Stephanie SalmonsMay 14, 2026

'Mister ambassador of aloha'

It's a bad look for the word "aloha" when it's used to commend a vigilante beat down, as state Sen. Brenton Awa did last week, says ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa.

Sterling HigaMay 13, 2026

Kukane Street Stand is a new bake stand in Kāneʻohe

The neighborhood bake stand offers a rotating selection of desserts and specialty lattes. Baked goods are available on a first-come, first-served basis; the bake stand is usually open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 13, 2026

Pipikaula Corner: A conversation about SB2471

ASD Editor in Chief A. Kam Napier appears in this week's episode of Talk Story with Keli‘i Akina, on ThinkTech Hawai‘i, to discuss SB2471. The Legislature almost unanimously passed the bill to overturn the Citizens United decision in Hawai‘i last Friday. It now awaits Gov. Josh Green's signature. Akina has questions — what does this mean for Hawai‘i? Watch it here.

A. Kam NapierMay 13, 2026

Strange Events at the Ke‘elikōlani Building

It's hard to imagine now, but this area of the Capitol District of Honolulu was once waterfront property, where King Kamehameha I and his Royal Court made their home. Now, state government department heads, rather than powerful kahuna, hold sway, but it's possible the old energies linger, causing eerie experiences.

Lopaka Kapanui and Tanya KapanuiMay 13, 2026

Loan program launched for condominium associations

The Condominium Association Loan Program provides direct loans to Associations of Apartment Owners, or AOAOs.

Stephanie SalmonsMay 13, 2026

Hawai‘i baseball enters final Big West series aiming to clinch spot in conference tournament

The Rainbow Warriors need to win one of their three home games against CSUN this week in order to clinch a spot in next week's Big West tournament.

Christian ShimabukuMay 13, 2026

Hawai‘i County to decide whether to allow 'Burning Man'-style festival

"Falls on Fire" festival in Pāpa‘ikou has generated controversy among Big Isle neighbors.

Michael BrestovanskyMay 13, 2026

Hawai‘i men's volleyball welcomed back home by loyal fans

The Rainbow Warriors arrived back on campus after winning their third national championship in six years.

Christian ShimabukuMay 13, 2026

Jack Johnson, farmers markets and more: Your guide to the weekend

Ready to make plans for Friday, Saturday and Sunday on Oʻahu? Whether you are looking for some live music or a farmers market, Aloha State Daily put together this list of ideas, which includes how to round up ingredients for banana pancakes … or listen to Jack Johnson sing about them.

Katie HellandMay 13, 2026

Tanaka Ramen & Izakaya is opening in Windward Mall

The business’s newest location is celebrating its grand opening on Wednesday, May 13. This is Tanaka Ramen & Izakaya’s seventh Hawaiʻi location. Customers can enjoy a discounted ramen offer on May 13, along with specials during the restaurant’s first week of operation.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 13, 2026

Biodynamic farm on Maui seeks support after storms

Lokelani ʻOhana, a Wailuku farm that offers therapeutic programs rooted in Hawaiian culture for adults with developmental disabilities, is fundraising via GoFundMe and its website to aid in rebuilding following the back-to-back Kona Low storms in March. Donations to the nonprofit will also go toward bringing on an organic farmer, according to Farm Director Christina Chang.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 12, 2026

Chef Jason Yamaguchi is the new consulting chef at Ki Club

Yamaguchi — who also owns Konpa, located in Southern California — is bringing Japanese-Peruvian cuisine to the Honolulu eatery. The new menu highlights Nikkei-style dishes ranging from ‘ahi nigiri and lomo saltado to mushroom ceviche.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 12, 2026

Hawai‘i men's volleyball wins national championship match over UC Irvine

After a slow start, the Rainbow Warriors won their third national championship of the decade and first since 2022.

Christian ShimabukuMay 12, 2026

Uncles and Aunties: Ron Montgomery, finds 'thrill' repairing planes

Ron Montgomery served in the Navy for 28 years as an aircraft mechanic and air crewman, and shortly after worked a 25-year career with Hawaiian Airlines. Now, you can find him volunteering to restore a variety of vintage planes, mostly World War II-era, at the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. On May 23, the museum will hold a community event, themed Armed Forces Appreciation.

Cheryl Chee TsutsumiMay 12, 2026

Earning the right to teach

Fame is not the same as mastery, says ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa, as he contemplates the careers of Kamohai and Tristyn Kalama, stars of "Renovation Aloha." The duo was in trouble again recently, this time for having run two illegal short-term rentals.

Sterling HigaMay 12, 2026

Zippy's, Hawaiian Island Creations collab launches this month

The new collection that celebrates the Surf Pac, surfing and the "long-standing relationship between the two." It includes a T-shirt, towel and decals.

Stephanie SalmonsMay 12, 2026

Community Voices: Follow the yellow brick road

Stay tuned for further news on the bills advancing toward the Land of Oz.

Tom YamachikaMay 11, 2026

Molokaʻi-based nail art business owner's tips for design

Līhau Willing, founder of Hawaiʻi-born brand Iwi Nails, talks about the evolution of her business since 2021.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 11, 2026

Formby steps down as Honolulu managing director

Mike Formby to step down from managing director position after five years.

Michael BrestovanskyMay 11, 2026

AYCE wagyu shabu shabu spot opens in Kapahulu

Mikiya Honolulu just opened its second location in Kapahulu Shopping Center. The eatery is currently open nightly from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Customers can look forward to meats ranging from Japanese A5 wagyu brisket to Australian wagyu, a self-serve veggie bar, and soft serve for dessert.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 11, 2026

Community Voices: Last week to apply for OHA’s Mahiʻai Micro Fund Program

Farmers impacted by the recent Kona Low storms may be eligible for awards of up to $5,000, while other eligible farmers may receive awards of up to $3,000 to support ongoing operational costs. The deadline to apply is Friday, May 15.

Bill BrennanMay 11, 2026

The week ahead in Hawai‘i sports: HHSAA wraps up state championships

Four different sports will crown their state championships this week to wrap up the school year in high school sports.

Christian ShimabukuMay 11, 2026

53 By The Sea has a new chef and tasting menu

Internationally acclaimed chef Takayoshi Kawai is now at the oceanfront restaurant; he is known for his 1995 appearance on Fuji TV’s “Iron Chef.” Diners can choose from five-course and six-course tasting menus. The eatery plans to replace its former Sunday brunch with weekend lunch service in the upcoming months.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 11, 2026

Pipikaula Corner: How the Clinton White House just bamboozled Hawai‘i

The Legislature was jubilant as it passed SB2471 on Friday, seeking to overturn the effects of the Citizens United decision in Hawai‘i and get big money and outside influences out of our elections. The irony is, Mainland power players were pulling our strings the whole time.

A. Kam NapierMay 11, 2026

Mililani breaks through to win first HHSAA baseball title

The Trojans defeated Pac-Five 1-0 in a pitcher's duel for the ages.

Christian ShimabukuMay 11, 2026

Community Voices: Historic 2024 tax cuts rescued for majority of Hawai‘i residents

Grassroot Institute of Hawai‘i played a part in convincing the Legislature to preserve nearly all of the promised tax cuts that had been poised for repeal at the start of the session.

Keliʻi AkinaMay 11, 2026

Shakas up: Hawai‘i men's volleyball advances to national championship with victory over rival Long Beach State

The Rainbow Warriors will take on UC Irvine in Monday's national championship match at 1 p.m. HST.

Christian ShimabukuMay 10, 2026

Hawai‘i softball eliminated from Big West tournament

Panita Thanatharn's debut season at UH ends at 30-20.

Christian ShimabukuMay 10, 2026

Young Brothers rate hikes, anti-ICE bills cross finish line

The 2026 legislative session finally ended Friday, with more bills passing at the eleventh hour.

Michael BrestovanskyMay 09, 2026

Zippy's to open newest Las Vegas location

Zippy's Camino Al Norte will open on Tuesday, May 19.

Stephanie SalmonsMay 09, 2026

New legislation increases tax credits for Hawaiʻi productions

The film industry may see increased tax credits through new legislation now before Gov. Josh Green for approval. The bill would increase tax credits by 5% on Oʻahu and Neighbor Islands for productions with at least 80% local hires.

Katie HellandMay 09, 2026

Mai Tais & Burgers to Malama campaign runs through May

The Marriott Waikīkī Collection and Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa have launched this fundraising campaign to support the Hawaiʻi farmers affected by the Kona Low storms. Until May 31, five resort restaurants are donating $1 from every designated burger and mai tai sold to the Hawaiʻi Farmers’ Disaster Relief Fund.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 09, 2026

Legendary coaches Pete Carroll and Mack Brown to lead teams in 2027 Polynesian Bowl

The 2027 game will be the 10th edition of the high school all-star game, which is annually set in the Islands.

Christian ShimabukuMay 09, 2026

Thirty Eight launches a new happy hour

The Pier 38 eatery’s new happy hour is from Mondays to Saturdays. The restaurant also added a variety of new dishes — ranging from blackened ‘ahi salad to mahi sandwiches — to its lunch menu.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 08, 2026

Q&A with state Sen. Karl Rhoads on SB2471

The senator who introduced SB2471 speaks about the origins and purpose of this attempt to undo Citizens United, and what happens when it gets challenged.

A. Kam NapierMay 08, 2026

UHERO: Hawai‘i housing affordability improves slightly but housing crisis 'remains severe'

UHERO has published its Hawai‘i Housing Factbook 2026, the fourth edition of an annual report that analyzes the state's housing market.

Stephanie SalmonsMay 08, 2026

Native Hawaiian author makes debut as novelist this month

California-based writer Kauakanilehua Māhoe Adams is set to release her first Young Adult novel in verse, “An Expanse of Blue,” on May 19. The fiction story loosely drawn from the author's own life experience, follows a teen with ties to Hawaiʻi and Washington as she navigates faith, family and love.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 08, 2026

Legislature OKs bills reducing pennies, kids in pickup trucks and more

With only one day left this legislative session, what new laws might take effect this year?

Michael BrestovanskyMay 08, 2026

'Of course we take that personally': Hawai‘i men's volleyball set to battle Long Beach State in Final Four

A pair of upside down shakas gestured toward UH's fans in the most recent matchup between the 'Bows and The Beach has stoked the rivalry's fire.

Christian ShimabukuMay 08, 2026

Q&A with state Sen. Jarrett Keohokalole on SB2471

It's down to the wire on this intensely scrutinized bill as it goes up for a final vote on Friday. ASD got time with one of the champions of this attempt by Hawai‘i to circumvent the Citizens United U.S. Supreme Court decision, to ask about the intentions behind it.

A. Kam NapierMay 08, 2026

ʻGotta start somewhereʻ

ASD opinion columnist Sterling Higa digs into the claimed Christian ethics of would-be assassin Cole Tomas Allen, who stormed the White House Correspondent's Dinner in Washington, D.C.

Sterling HigaMay 08, 2026

Oakberry Hawaiʻi is opening in Honolulu

Acai business Oakberry Hawaiʻi is opening its newest location at the Park Shore Waikīkī on Saturday, May 9 at 10 a.m. This store is located close to Waikīkī Beach and Honolulu Zoo.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 08, 2026

7 things to do for Memorial Day 2026

Looking for ways to celebrate Memorial Day? The City and County of Honolulu is looking for help creating 38,000 lei for service members laid to rest at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. There are also opportunities to visit Pearl Harbor and attend a Memorial Day lantern floating ceremony.

Katie HellandMay 08, 2026

Senators, colleagues remember Colleen Hanabusa

Scores attended a memorial service for the late Hanabusa at the state Senate Thursday.

Michael BrestovanskyMay 08, 2026

Community Voices: Untangling occupational licensing rules

If passed, Senate Bill 2876 would replace burdensome cosmetology licensing requirements for natural hair braiders with a simple registration. This is a step in the right direction for local entrepreneurs, Grassroot Institute of Hawai‘i notes.

Keliʻi AkinaMay 07, 2026

Hot Pot Heaven Kailua is offering pho during lunch

Starting Friday, May 8, the eatery will offer pho, fresh spring rolls, summer rolls and papaya salad daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. These dishes are bestsellers at the eatery’s sister business, Pho Heaven.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 07, 2026

Video of man throwing rock at monk seal under investigation

Man in social media video has been identified by the Department of Land and Natural Resources, but his identity has been withheld pending a review by a federal agency.

Michael BrestovanskyMay 07, 2026

Bishop-elect Michael Castori appointed as Bishop Larry Silva's successor

Castori, a member of the Society of Jesus, took a moment to thank God, Pope Leo XIV, the Most Rev. Silva, staff of the Diocese of Honolulu and more, who gathered for his official appointment as Bishop-elect on May 6. Bishop Silva, 76, submitted his resignation in August 2024 with plans to stay in Hawaiʻi following the episcopal ordination and installation ceremony for Castori in July.

Kelsey Kukaua MedeirosMay 07, 2026

Why these volunteers return to Memorial Day lantern floating ceremony

Shinnyo Lantern Floating Hawaiʻi is a Memorial Day ceremony that brings thousands to the water’s edge at Ala Moana Beach. Jacob Kam and his mother, Betty Lou Kam, have been volunteers for several years and share what keeps them coming back.

Katie HellandMay 07, 2026

Hawai‘i softball gears up for final Big West tournament

The Rainbow Wahine open up play on Thursday and could need as little as three wins to advance to their first NCAA Tournament since 2013.

Christian ShimabukuMay 07, 2026

Pay increases coming for Hawai‘i teachers

House and Senate unanimously sign off of annual step increases for public school teachers.

Michael BrestovanskyMay 07, 2026

Hanalei's 'Tiki Home' one of Vrbo's top vacation rentals

The 4,500-square-foot home, just 700 feet from Hanalei Bay, was one of 15 recently recognized as Vrbo's 2026 Vacation Rentals of the Year.

Stephanie SalmonsMay 07, 2026

Fairway Tavern is now open at ‘Ewa Villages Golf Course

The eatery is owned by chef Adam Gilbert, previously of Monarch Poke and Plantation Tavern, and business partner Chris Natale. The eatery strives to offer local-style dishes — including its signature poke nachos — at affordable prices, and also features a grab-and-go section for golfers.

Kelli Shiroma BraiottaMay 06, 2026

Community Voices: Hawaiʻi’s rural nurses hold the line. It’s time the state holds them up

In honor of National Nurses Day on May 6, HPU School of Nursing Dean Edna Magpantay-Monroe shares how the state has begun to take steps to strengthen rural health infrastructure, though more work is needed.

Edna Magpantay-MonroeMay 06, 2026

Hamada: Political influence in Hawai‘i by the numbers

A shockingly low percentage of people vote in Hawai‘i, notes ASD opinion columnist Rick Hamada. Something to keep in mind as we see what the Hawai‘i State Legislature passes this week.

Rick HamadaMay 06, 2026

The continuous haunting of the Kaka‘ako fire station

Fire stations around the world, and across the Islands, are famous for hauntings. Here's a closer look at the strange experiences of fire fighters at the Kaka‘ako Fire Station, located in an area where once more than a thousand small pox victims were buried.

Lopaka Kapanui and Tanya KapanuiMay 06, 2026